Establish prayer and spend from what Allah has provided

Verse: 2:3
Arabic Text

الَّذِينَ يُؤْمِنُونَ بِالْغَيْبِ وَيُقِيمُونَ الصَّلَاةَ وَمِمَّا رَزَقْنَاهُمْ يُنفِقُونَ

Translation

Who believe in the unseen, are steadfast in prayer, and spend out of that We have provided for them.

Description

This verse encourages Muslims to have faith in the unseen, perform their prayers regularly, and share their wealth with others.

Detailed Explanation

This verse from Surah Al-Baqarah highlights core aspects of a Muslim's faith and actions. Firstly, it emphasizes the importance of believing in the unseen, which means having faith in Allah, His angels, His books, His messengers, the Day of Judgment, and all other aspects that are unseen but part of the Islamic creed. Belief in the unseen demonstrates trust in Allah's wisdom and planning, which guides a believer's actions and purpose in life. Secondly, the verse instructs Muslims to establish prayer, which is a fundamental act of worship in Islam. Regular prayers, or Salah, are a direct means for a believer to maintain a connection with Allah, seek guidance, and find solace and strength. By praying five times a day, a Muslim constantly realigns their focus towards their spiritual goals and responsibilities, keeping their worldly interactions in check with Islamic principles. The significance of Salah is further emphasized in Hadith, where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) mentioned that the first deed to be accounted for on the Day of Judgment will be Salah (Sunan Abi Dawood 864). Lastly, the verse urges believers to spend from what Allah has provided for them, emphasizing charity and generosity. This act of spending is not limited to financial wealth but includes time, skills, and any resources one possesses. The act of charity, known as Sadaqah, purifies wealth and grows a sense of community and empathy among believers. The Quran highlights this again in Surah Al-Baqarah 2:261, where the act of spending in the way of Allah is likened to a seed growing seven ears, each containing a hundred grains, illustrating the immense rewards of charity in both this life and the hereafter. Tafsir Ibn Kathir explains that this spending is a practical demonstration of faith, showcasing one's gratitude towards Allah's blessings and acknowledging that true wealth is in the hereafter. By understanding these principles, a Muslim is encouraged to lead a balanced and purposeful life.