In the teachings of Islam, we often come across the phrase “fastabiqul khoirot” derived from Surah Al-Baqarah verse 148. This expression holds a profound meaning about racing and competing to achieve goodness. In this article, we will explore the concept of fastabiqul khoirot in Islam, delve into related verses and hadiths, and encourage contributing to goodness through the act of giving charity for health and prosperity.
The Concept of Fastabiqul Khoirot in Islam
1. Racing Towards Goodness
Allah SWT says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:148), “And for every [community] there is a direction toward which it faces. So race to [all that is] good. Wherever you may be, Allah will bring you forth [for judgement] all together. Indeed, Allah is over all things competent.”
Explanation: This verse emphasizes the need to compete in achieving goodness and piety towards Allah. Life is like a race, and the ultimate goal is to gain Allah’s pleasure and achieve happiness in this world and the hereafter.
2. Fastabiqul Khoirot as a Key to Salvation
The Prophet Muhammad SAW said, “Compete in good deeds.” (Narrated by Ahmad). This hadith underscores the importance of competing in goodness as a means to achieve salvation and happiness in the hereafter.
Giving Charity: A Concrete Step of Fastabiqul Khoirot for Health and Prosperity
1. Charity as a Form of Racing for Goodness
Allah SWT says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:261), “The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed [of grain] which grows seven spikes; in each spike is a hundred grains. And Allah multiplies [His reward] for whom He wills.”
Charity is not merely seen as an act of goodness but as a form of racing for goodness that can potentially multiply rewards. This verse illustrates how every sincere act of goodness will grow and provide manifold benefits.
2. Hadith on the Blessings of Charity
The Prophet Muhammad SAW said, “Charity serves as a shield for the giver and a remedy for the recipient.” (Narrated by At-Tirmidhi).
Charity is not just a means of providing material assistance but also brings blessings and healing. The blessings of charity involve both spiritual and physical aspects, making it a comprehensive action for achieving well-being.
Baca juga: Rahasia Sedekah, Menurut Pandangan Imam Al Ghazali
3. Giving Charity for Spiritual Health
Allah SWT says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:267), “O you who have believed, spend from the good things which you have earned and from that which We have produced for you from the earth. And do not aim toward the defective therefrom, spending [from that] while you would not take it [yourself] except with closed eyes.”
Charity is not only about giving a portion of our wealth but also prioritizing quality in our deeds. By giving the best, we not only provide physical benefits but also attain spiritual health.
Fastabiqul Khoirot through Charity
Let us respond to the call of fastabiqul khoirot by giving our best in charity. As concrete steps, here are some actions we can take:
1. Determine the Portion of Wealth to Be Donated
When deciding the portion of wealth to be donated, we are reminded not to choose the inferior. This indicates that the quality of our charity also affects the value of our worship.
2. Choose a Trustworthy Organization or Charity Program
Select an organization or charity program with a good track record and trustworthiness. This will ensure that our donations are genuinely used for beneficial purposes.
3. Involve Family and Community
Encourage your family and community to compete in goodness together. Make fastabiqul khoirot a part of our collective lifestyle, creating an environment filled with goodness.
Fastabiqul khoirot is a call to compete in goodness, creating a race to gain Allah’s pleasure and salvation in the hereafter. In the context of charity, we not only give a part of our wealth but also create spiritual and physical well-being. Let us make fastabiqul khoirot a principle of our lives, and by racing together in goodness, we can achieve true health and prosperity. Let’s fastabiqul khoirot for the goodness of this world and the hereafter!
