He who gets back his charity is like a dog which vomits, and then returns to that and eats it.
The Book of Gifts - Sahih Muslim 1622a
This narration from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) employs a powerful analogy to illustrate the spiritual degradation of reclaiming a charitable gift. The comparison to a dog returning to consume its vomit serves as a vivid depiction of how such an action nullifies the spiritual reward and reflects poorly on one's character.
Scholarly Commentary
Imam al-Nawawi explains that this hadith strongly prohibits taking back one's charity once given. The analogy emphasizes the repugnance of this action in the sight of Allah, as it demonstrates greed, lack of sincerity, and breaking the trust established through giving.
Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani notes that the comparison specifically references a dog's natural behavior to highlight how base and instinctual this action appears - devoid of higher reasoning or spiritual consideration that should distinguish human conduct.
Scholars unanimously agree this prohibition applies regardless of the recipient's financial situation changing after receiving the charity. The gift becomes the lawful property of the recipient the moment it is accepted.
Juridical Rulings
The majority of scholars consider taking back charity (ar-raj'ah fi as-sadaqah) forbidden (haram) based on this explicit prophetic prohibition. The only exception recognized by some scholars is when a parent takes back a gift from a child, under specific conditions.
If someone does reclaim their charity, they must repent sincerely and are encouraged to give equivalent or greater charity to atone for this transgression.