When the verses of charity were revealed, we used to work as porters. A man came and distributed objects of charity in abundance. And they (the people) said, "He is showing off." And another man came and gave a Sa (a small measure of food grains); they said, "Allah is not in need of this small amount of charity." And then the Divine Inspiration came: "Those who criticize such of the believers who give in charity voluntarily and those who could not find to give in charity except what is available to them." (9.79).
Context and Occasion of Revelation
This narration from Sahih al-Bukhari 1415 describes the circumstances surrounding the revelation of verse 79 from Surah At-Tawbah. The Companions were engaged in manual labor as porters when charity verses were revealed, demonstrating their humble economic circumstances.
Two contrasting cases emerged: one wealthy individual gave abundantly but was accused of showing off (riya'), while another poor companion gave only a small measure (Sa') but was mocked for its insignificance.
Scholarly Commentary on the Two Cases
The first case teaches that questioning the sincerity of charitable givers is forbidden. Even if someone gives abundantly, we cannot judge their intention - this matter belongs to Allah alone. The accusation of "showing off" constitutes backbiting and slander.
The second case demonstrates the grave error of belittling small charities. A Sa' (approximately 3 kg) might seem insignificant to people, but Allah accepts deeds based on sincerity and capacity, not quantity. The poor person's charity may be more beloved to Allah than larger amounts from the wealthy.
Legal and Spiritual Implications
This hadith establishes that mocking or criticizing believers' charitable acts - whether for giving too much or too little - constitutes major sin. Such criticism nullifies the reward of both the giver and the criticizer.
Scholars derive that charity should be accepted gratefully regardless of amount, and that we must assume the best about Muslims' intentions. The focus should be on encouraging charity rather than discouraging it through criticism.
The divine response in Quran 9:79 confirms Allah's defense of both the sincere wealthy giver and the struggling poor giver, uniting the Ummah in mutual support rather than division.