Being kind, generous, and charitable is at the core of Islam — it’s not just something we’re encouraged to do, it’s something we’re called to live by. The importance of charity is emphasized throughout the Qur’an and Sunnah. In fact, according to a recent report by Charities Aid Foundation, Indonesia, the country with the largest Muslim population, is the most charitable in the world. Muslims in both the US and the UK are also the most charitable demographics in their respective countries.
But charity in Islam isn’t only about monetary donations. It encompasses a wide range of actions that contribute to the well-being of others. As our beloved Prophet (peace be upon him) said in a famous hadeeth:
“Your smiling in the face of your brother is charity, commanding good and forbidding evil is charity, your giving directions to a man lost in the land is charity for you. Your seeing for a man with bad sight is a charity for you, your removal of a rock, a thorn or a bone from the road is charity for you. Your pouring what remains from your bucket into the bucket of your brother is charity for you.”
Today, we’ll explore how you can increase your charitable deeds with your time, effort, and skills — without needing to give money.
Help maintain a local mosque or prayer hall
Many of us visit our local mosque or prayer hall regularly, but how often do we think about leaving the space better than we found it? Next time you visit, take a few moments to tidy up—whether it’s arranging books, folding prayer mats, picking up tissue or paper, or putting away chairs.
If you can, team up with others to organize a more coordinated effort to clean the mosque—bring cleaning supplies from home and work together to keep the space welcoming. After all, keeping our place of worship clean and perfumed is part of the Sunnah.
Donate clothes or other items you no longer need
Decluttering your home presents a great opportunity to donate things you no longer need. Consider giving away clothes, shoes, or other items that are still in good condition—either to a local charity or directly to someone in need within your community.
Just be sure to donate items that are still in good shape, as Islam advises us to give what we would deem worthy of ourselves.
Volunteer locally
Donating your time is another powerful way to give back. Volunteering for local charities or community initiatives—whether it’s helping to distribute food, organizing events, or even cleaning up local parks—can make a tangible impact on your community.
For example, you can organize a potluck-style meal for the less fortunate in your neighborhood, where everyone brings something to share. If you don’t already see opportunities around you, think about gathering like-minded people to start your own charitable project.
Volunteer online
If you’re unable to participate in local charitable efforts, consider online platforms where you can still help others. Websites like Translators Without Borders, and Be My Eyes provide opportunities for you to assist people with language translation, accessibility, and other services—all from the comfort of your home.
Tutoring or mentoring
Another way to give back is by dedicating some of your time to teaching or mentoring others. Whether it’s helping someone learn a new language, teaching a craft, or guiding someone interested in starting a business, offering your knowledge and skills can be an invaluable form of charity.
Sharing what you know can help others thrive.
Plant a tree
Our Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “If a Muslim plants a tree, or sows a field and men and animals and birds eat from it, all of it is charity from him”.
Planting a tree is a long-lasting form of charity. It provides food, shade, and improves the environment, benefiting people and animals alike. Whether it’s in your backyard, a public park, or as part of a reforestation project, planting a tree is an investment in both this life and the Hereafter.
Helping someone with your skills
You may have skills that you take for granted, but that could be a huge help to someone else. Perhaps you’re able to fix a car, help with tech problems, or offer other practical support.
Maybe you have a car and can give your elderly neighbor a ride to the doctor or help with their groceries. Take a moment to reflect on how you can help those around you with the abilities you already possess.
Be courteous and kind
As the Prophet (peace be upon him) taught us, even a smile can be an act of charity.
Kindness is a form of charity that costs nothing but has great value. Whether it’s greeting someone with a smile, offering a helping hand, or simply being courteous, small acts of kindness can go a long way in building a thriving community.
The worldly benefits of charitable actions
While the intention behind our charitable actions should be focused on increasing our good deeds in the Hereafter, the beauty of being charitable carries many benefits for the volunteer in this world as well.
In fact, research studies show that volunteering can improve your mental, physical, and social health. It’s linked to increased life satisfaction, sense of empowerment, and motivation. Volunteering also fosters a strong sense of community and social support, which are key to a balanced and healthy life.
So while charity is first and foremost an act of worship, it also brings incredible rewards in this life.