Islam's Response to Contemporary Issues — Page 262
262 islam’s response to contemporary issues If a Muslim plants a tree, then whatever is eaten from it is charity on his part and whatever is stolen from it is charity and whatever is subtracted from it is charity. 8 Shield yourselves against the Fire, even if it be by giving away half a date in charity, and if that should be lacking, by saying a good word. 9 If a person should have nothing, he should work with his hands to his own benefit and also give away alms. If he is unable to work, he should help a needy helpless one. If he cannot even do that, he should urge others to goodness. If he lacks that also, he should restrain himself from doing evil. That too is charity. 10 Even a morsel of food fed in your wife’s mouth earns the love of God. A Constant Awareness of Other Human Beings Islam develops sensibility and sensitivity to the pains and sufferings of others. We have already discussed this aspect under the section dealing with socio-economic and political peace. No further comments are needed here. A Wider Sphere of Loving Care Islam widens one’s sphere and the ability to love not only one’s fellow human beings but also the entire creation of God. As Islam claims to be the last revealed religion addressed not only to a people but the