In the Name of Allāh.
KINDNESS IS FREE! While some might argue that nothing comes without a cost, even in a place called Freetown, it is not always the case. It is indeed true that a simple smile toward a fellow brother can be considered an act of kindness, and it doesn’t come with a price tag! Additionally, Islām emphasizes kindness towards oneself, family, friends, neighbors (including non-Muslims), and even animals. Respected brethren! I would like to remind you that Ramaḍān is a time of generosity.
Ibn ‘Abbās (Raḍiyallāhu ‘Anhu) narrated that the Prophet (ﷺ) was exceptionally generous, and his generosity peaked during the month of Ramaḍān, especially when he would meet with Jibreel. [Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī 1902] During this blessed period, a productive habit worth adopting is kindness (being gentle, generous, charitable, helpful, compassionate, etc.), particularly by providing at least one meal to a fasting individual (especially those who are poor or in need) each day. This act does not require a significant financial outlay. What truly matters is not the magnitude of the charitable act but the purity of intention, the sincerity in our hearts, and the kindness that flows from our inner selves.
We are all aware of the immense reward linked to the simple act of feeding a fasting person. The Prophet (ﷺ) stated: “Whoever feeds a fasting person will have a reward equivalent to the reward of the fasting person without decreasing the person’s reward.” [Sunan At-Tirmidhī 807] The act of kindness doesn’t need to end there; consider bringing fruits and drinking water to a nearby Masjid for those who are fasting. Although it may seem trivial, it carries profound significance. Let us be generous toward each other — think of the poor, the needy, the elderly, orphans, inmates, the sick, and all those experiencing hardships.
O brethren, let kindness illuminate our path throughout this blessed month of Ramaḍān, as it is through kindness that we cultivate the fruits of generosity, through kindness that we drink from the well of mercy, and through kindness we can earn entry into Paradise, Bi Ithnillāh.
I beseech Allāh to guide our hands in charitable deeds, our hearts in compassion, and our souls in kindness. Aameen!
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