Generosity is willingness in giving away one’s own wealth to those in need.There are different forms of generosity; to give something that has monetary value is the most obvious form of it. However it is not limited to that, spending ones time to do a good deed, giving helpful advice or sharing knowledge are also generous acts which Muslims are encouraged to do. A higher level of generosity is to give virtuously, not expecting gain or recognition for giving. Our worldly possessions are bounties from Allah and everything we possess is merely a loan.



Generosity can be viewed as a wise investment for the Hereafter. Generosity paves the way to Paradise because with every generous act comes great rewards. Allah SWT says, “The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed (of grain) which grows seven spikes; in each spike is a hundred grains. And Allah multiplies (rewards) for whom He wills. And Allah is all-Encompassing and Knowing.” [2: 261].  In a different verse Allah SWTsays, “...And whatever you spend of good – it will be fully repaid to you, and you will not be wronged.'' [2: 272]

Allah is the one who provides for us and He expects us to share with others generously. Allah SWT says, “Give to your close relatives what they need, and also give generously to the destitute and to wayfarers. Do not squander your wealth; those who are wasteful are the brothers and sisters of Satan and Satan is always ungrateful to his Lord. But if, while waiting for the Lord's bounty, you are unable to help your relatives, the destitute and wayfarers, then at least speak kindly to them."  [17:26]

Muslims should strive to do as much as they are able to and never look down upon any charity no matter how small it may be. Prophet PBUH said, "Protect yourself from the Hell-fire even by giving a piece of a date as charity.'' [Bukharie].   This narration shows that a person can be generous and win the pleasure of Allah even by spending a small quantity of wealth provided the intention is right. 

Generosity is not expressed exclusively with wealth and money, but also with our time, good deeds, actions and kindness to others. Allah SWT says, "Never will you attain the good (reward) until you spend (in the way of Allah) from that which you love..."[3: 92]   

Whoever gives for Allah’s sake will never decrease one’s wealth, he\she will be blessed, their wealth will be purified and increase in amount.  Prophet PBUH said: “Charity does not decrease wealth.”[Muslim].  Whatever is given in charity will be recorded with The One Who has full knowledge of all things. Prophet PBUH said, "Allah SWTsays: `Spend, O son of Adam, you will also be spent upon.'' [Bukharie] 

Muslims should not delay in doing a good deed as we don’t know when our time will be up and loose the opportunity of investing for our next life. Allah SWT says, “And spend (in the way of Allah) from what We have provided you before death approaches one of you and he says, ‘My Lord, if only You would delay me for a brief term so I would give charity and be among the righteous.’” [63:10]

Whether giving in abundance from his riches, or a small amount of one's meager means, one should give with complete satisfaction with a cheerful face and nice speech and not to look down upon those who receive the charity.  Prophet PBUH said, "Everyday two angels descend and one of them says, ‘O Allah! compensate (more) to the person who gives (in charity)'; while the other one says, ‘O Allah! destroy the one who withholds (charity, etc)" [Bukharie].    A man asked the Prophet PBUH, "Which act in Islam is the best?'' He PBUH replied, "To feed the poor and the needy and to greet those whom you know and those you do not know'' [Bukharie].