The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "On every Muslim there is enjoined (a compulsory) Sadaqa (alms)." They (the people) said, "If one has nothing?' He said, "He should work with his hands so that he may benefit himself and give in charity." They said, "If he cannot work or does not work?" He said, "Then he should help the oppressed unhappy person (by word or action or both)." They said, "If he does not do it?" He said, "Then he should enjoin what is good (or said what is reasonable).' They said, "If he does not do that''' He said, "Then he should refrain from doing evil, for that will be considered for Him as a Sadaqa (charity) . "
Good Manners and Form (Al-Adab)
Sahih al-Bukhari - Hadith 6022
Hadith Text
The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "On every Muslim there is enjoined (a compulsory) Sadaqa (alms)." They (the people) said, "If one has nothing?' He said, "He should work with his hands so that he may benefit himself and give in charity." They said, "If he cannot work or does not work?" He said, "Then he should help the oppressed unhappy person (by word or action or both)." They said, "If he does not do it?" He said, "Then he should enjoin what is good (or said what is reasonable).' They said, "If he does not do that''' He said, "Then he should refrain from doing evil, for that will be considered for Him as a Sadaqa (charity)."
Commentary on the Comprehensive Nature of Charity
This noble hadith demonstrates the vast mercy of Allah and the comprehensive wisdom of Islamic law. The Prophet (ﷺ) expands the concept of sadaqa beyond mere monetary giving to encompass all forms of goodness. This teaching ensures that no Muslim is excluded from the immense rewards of charity, regardless of their financial situation.
The scholars explain that this hadith establishes a daily obligation of charity upon every Muslim. Imam Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani states in Fath al-Bari that this refers to a recommended charity (sadaqa mustahabbah) rather than the obligatory zakat, showing Islam's encouragement of continuous good deeds.
Hierarchy of Charitable Acts
The Prophet (ﷺ) presents a descending hierarchy of charitable actions, beginning with the most perfect and moving to alternatives when one is incapable. First is financial charity for those with means. Second is physical labor to earn lawful provision and give charity - emphasizing Islam's honor for productive work.
When incapable of work, one should assist the oppressed - showing Islam's concern for social justice. Then comes enjoining good (al-amr bil-ma'ruf), which preserves moral society. Finally, abstaining from evil becomes an act of worship - demonstrating that even self-restraint earns divine reward.
Scholarly Insights
Imam al-Nawawi comments that this hadith proves the vast meaning of sadaqa in Islam, encompassing all good deeds. Even restraining one's tongue from backbiting or one's eyes from looking at forbidden things becomes charity.
Ibn Rajab al-Hanbali explains that the hierarchy shows the Shariah's accommodation of human circumstances while maintaining the spirit of continuous charity. The ultimate wisdom is that no Muslim remains without means to perform good deeds and draw closer to Allah.