Supporting orphaned children is a religious act highly favored by Allah SWT. Orphaned children even have a special privilege, as their prayers are more likely to be heard and answered by Allah SWT. An orphaned child is one who has lost their father and must live with their mother or remaining family members. In many cases, many orphaned children are taken in by orphanages. The absence of a father figure in the family makes the economic condition of orphans difficult. That is why giving alms or donations to them is commanded in Islam. So, how much should be given as alms to orphans?
Guidelines for Alms for Orphans
Those who wish to give alms by supporting orphans certainly want to ensure that the amount they give is in accordance with religious teachings. Alms are certainly different from zakat. Zakat is an obligation to purify ourselves and our possessions. Zakat is also mandatory.
Read also: Punishment for Those Who Mistreat Orphans
Meanwhile, charity is an act of worship that does not have a fixed calculation. This is because charity is given as a form of compassion to help those in need. This includes giving charity to orphans.
Since there are no specific rules governing it, there is no set formula for calculating the amount of charity to give to orphans. Those who wish to give charity to support orphans can do so by contributing whatever they can afford and deem appropriate. Charity can also be given in the form of food or other items, provided they are in good condition.
How to Give Charity to Orphaned Children According to the Teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
How can one give charity to orphaned children in the best way? As Muslims, it is advisable to follow the guidelines practiced by the Prophet Muhammad. When giving charity to orphaned children, the Prophet taught the following:
- Intend to Give Charity for Orphaned Children and to Seek the Pleasure of Allah SWT
In every good deed, intention is the most important thing. If you wish to give charity, ensure that your intention is pure. This means that the charity is given solely to bring joy and benefit to the orphaned children. The charity is also given solely to seek the pleasure of Allah SWT.
If you give charity to receive praise, then the value of that charity is wasted. You may receive praise from people, but that charity will have no meaning to Allah SWT.
- Giving Appropriate Items
If you want to give charity in the form of goods, make sure that the items are in good condition. One of the most unfortunate things is that there are still many people who distribute poor quality items as alms. For example, donating clothes that are no longer wearable or food that is close to its expiration date. This will certainly hurt the feelings of the orphans who receive them.
Read also: The Virtue of Supporting Orphans According to the Hadith of the Prophet Muhammad
- Giving Alms in a Good and Polite Manner
Avoid being arrogant or haughty when giving alms to orphans. Arrogance is a trait that is greatly despised by Allah SWT. Giving alms should mean sharing good things with those in need.
Giving alms, especially if it causes arrogance, will only be in vain. This is because such almsgiving will not be accepted by Allah SWT. So, how much alms should be given to orphans? The amount is not important. As long as what the donor gives is appropriate and beneficial to the orphans.
Nowadays, giving alms to orphans can be done quickly through Dompet Dhuafa. Dompet Dhuafa ensures that the alms given by donors will be delivered to orphans throughout Indonesia. The financial reports provided are transparent and detailed. This way, donors can feel more at ease and peaceful when giving alms through the Dompet Dhuafa foundation.