Liberality in Islam

Definition and Etymology

Liberality is a celebrated virtue in Islam, emphasizing generosity, hospitality, and the sharing of wealth and resources. This concept is captured in Arabic through the terms sak͟hāwah (سخاوة‎), meaning “hospitality,” and infāq (انفاق‎), which refers to “general liberality” in all things.

Arabic and Turkish Translations

• Arabic: سخاوة (sak͟hāwah), انفاق (infāq)
• Turkish: Cömertlik, Yardımlaşma

Significance in Islamic Teachings

Liberality is a highly valued trait and is strongly encouraged within the Islamic tradition. The teachings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasize the importance of being generous and charitable. The following Hadiths highlight this virtue:

Hadith Examples

1. Nearness to God and Paradise

   • “The liberal man is near to God, near to Paradise, near to men, and distant from hell. The miser is far from God, far from Paradise, far from man, and near the fire. Truly an ignorant but liberal man is more beloved by God, than a miser who is a worshipper of God.”

2. Exclusion from Paradise

   • “Three people will not enter Paradise: a deceiver, a miser, and one who reproaches others with obligation after giving.”

3. Daily Angels’ Prayers

   • “Every morning God sends two angels, and one of them says, ‘O God, give to the liberal man something in lieu of that which he has given away!’ and the other says, ‘O God, ruin the property of the miser!'”

4. Metaphor of Coats of Mail

   • “The miser and the liberal man are like two men dressed in coats of mail, their arms glued to their breasts and collar bones, on account of the tightness of the coats of mail. The liberal man stands up when giving alms, and the coat of mail expands for him. The miser stands up when intending alms; the coat of mail becomes tight, and every ring of it sticks fast to its place.”

Books for Further Study

1. “The Book of Assistance” by Imam Abdallah ibn Alawi al-Haddad
2. “Revival of the Religious Sciences” (Ihya Ulum al-Din) by Imam Al-Ghazali
3. “Purification of the Heart” by Hamza Yusuf

Takeaways and Conclusion

Liberality, or sak͟hāwah and infāq in Arabic, is a cornerstone of Islamic ethics, promoting generosity and charity as essential components of faith. Prophet Muhammad’s emphasis on this virtue serves as a reminder of the profound spiritual rewards associated with being open-handed and charitable. The Hadiths provide clear guidance on the importance of liberality, highlighting its benefits not only in this world but also in the Hereafter.

Cultivating this virtue can lead to closer ties with God, a higher likelihood of entering Paradise, and a more harmonious and compassionate society. Thus, the teachings of Islam encourage all believers to practice generosity and to help those in need as a reflection of their faith.