Infāq (انفاق)
Definition
Infāq (انفاق) - Lit. “Giving forth; expending.” Infāq is a significant concept in Islam that pertains to the act of giving, particularly in the context of charity and spending in the way of Allah.
Etymology
The term “Infāq” is derived from the Arabic root word “ن-ف-ق” (N-F-Q), which generally means to spend, exhaust, or deplete. In the context of Islamic teachings, infāq denotes the righteous act of spending one’s wealth or resources for the benefit of others and for the service of God.
Occurrence in the Qur’an
The word infāq occurs in the Qur’an in Sūrah al-Isrā’ (17:100):
قُلْ لَوۡ أَنتُمۡ تَمۡلِكُونَ خَزَآئِنَ رَحۡمَةِ رَبِّىٓ إِذٗا لَّأَمۡسَكۡتُمۡ خَشۡيَةَ ٱلۡإِنفَاقِۚ وَكَانَ ٱلۡإِنسَٰنُ قَتُورَۢا
(Translation: Say, "If you possessed the depositories of the mercy of my Lord, then you would withhold out of fear of expenditure." And ever has man been stingy.)
Significance in Islamic Teachings
Infāq is considered a meritorious act that encompasses a broad range of charitable activities, from giving obligatory alms (zakāh) to voluntary donations (sadaqah). It represents a believer’s willingness to part with material wealth for the sake of spiritual and communal benefits, emphasizing selflessness, generosity, and reliance on God.
Opposition to Imsāk
Infāq stands in opposition to imsāk (امساك), meaning withholding or miserliness. While imsāk implies holding back wealth and resources out of selfishness or fear of poverty, infāq is characterized by a generous and open-handed disposition.
Cultural and Social Impact
Infāq plays a crucial role in the socio-economic fabric of Muslim communities. It aims to alleviate poverty, support social welfare, and promote mutual support among believers. Through infāq, the wealth is circulated within society, ensuring a balanced and equitable economic structure.
Arabic and Turkish Translations
- Arabic: إِنْفَاق
- Turkish: İnfâk
Suggested Books for Further Study
- “Madarij al-Salikeen” (The Degrees of the Seekers) by Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyya: This book provides deep insights into the virtues of generosity and spending in the way of Allah.
- “The Concept of Charity in Islam” by Iftikhar Ahmed Mehar: A comprehensive guide to the principles and practices of charity in Islamic traditions.
- “Sahih Al-Bukhari” (compiled by Imam Bukhari): This hadith collection includes numerous references to the practice and significance of infāq.
Takeaways
- Infāq is central to Islamic teachings on charity and social justice.
- It encourages believers to spend their wealth in the service of God and for the benefit of others.
- Infāq stands in opposition to miserliness (imsāk) and promotes a balanced and equitable distribution of resources.
Conclusion
Understanding the concept of infāq is crucial for comprehending the broader Islamic ethos of charity and social responsibility. It not only emphasizes the material aspects of giving but also the spiritual elevation that comes from selflessness and trust in Allah.
By exploring the various dimensions of infāq, one can appreciate its profound significance in both individual and communal Islamic practices, fostering a spirit of cooperation, empathy, and collective well-being.
