Prefer kind speech and forgiveness over harsh charity
Verse: 2:263
Arabic Text
قَوْلٌ مَّعْرُوفٌ وَمَغْفِرَةٌ خَيْرٌ مِّن صَدَقَةٍ يَتْبَعُهَا أَذًى ۖ وَاللَّهُ غَنِيٌّ حَلِيمٌ
Translation
Kind speech and forgiveness are better than charity followed by injury. And Allah is Free of need and Forbearing.
Description
Being kind and forgiving is more valuable than giving charity in a hurtful way.
Detailed Explanation
This verse teaches us a powerful lesson about the nature of good deeds and the intentions behind them. While giving charity is an important act of kindness, the Quran reminds us that if it is followed by words or actions that hurt others, it loses its true value. It's better to speak kindly and forgive others than to give something and cause hurt afterward.
Understanding this can be easier when we consider the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). In several Hadiths, he emphasized the importance of maintaining good relationships and treating others with respect. For example, it is narrated in Sahih Al-Bukhari that the Prophet (PBUH) said, "The best among you are those who have the best manners and character." This means that how you treat people matters more than just giving them material things.
Furthermore, through explanations in Tafsir Ibn Kathir, we learn that Allah is self-sufficient and not in need of any charity. Acts of charity are meant to benefit the giver by helping them grow spiritually and become more compassionate. However, when one's heart is not aligned with kindness, the act loses its essence. Therefore, this verse encourages you to not just focus on the act of giving but more on how it is done – ensuring that your actions uplift others rather than bringing them down. This council is a divine reminder that your intentions and the way you make others feel are crucial in the eyes of Allah.