It was a time of urgency. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) called upon the Muslims to prepare for the expedition of Tabuk.
This campaign was a response to the threat of a Roman army amassing near the borders of Arabia, requiring the Muslims to traverse a scorching desert with limited resources. The Prophet urged the believers to contribute whatever they could with a spirit of sacrifice, for this was a test of faith and commitment.
In the gathering, a man quietly stood. He listened to the Prophet’s call, his heart resolute. Without hesitation, he went home. He looked around at everything he owned, not just the extra, not just what was easy to part with, but everything. He began gathering it all: gold coins, silver, and any possessions that could aid the cause.
When he returned, he carried his wealth in his hands and placed it all before the Prophet. The Prophet looked at the pile, then at the man.
“What have you left for your family?” the Prophet asked, concerned for his well-being.
The man smiled, his voice calm and filled with unwavering faith. “I have left for them Allah and His Messenger.”
The companions around him were stunned. They knew this was no small act, it was a sacrifice born from pure devotion. That man was Abu Bakr As-Siddiq (may Allah be pleased with him), the closest companion of the Prophet.
The Prophet was deeply moved by Abu Bakr’s sacrifice. He smiled, acknowledging the purity of Abu Bakr’s heart and the depth of his devotion. “No one has supported me as Abu Bakr has,” the Prophet would later say, emphasizing the unique bond they shared.
His spirit of sacrifice during the expedition of Tabuk wasn’t just an act of generosity; it was a lesson for generations to come. It showed what it truly means to give for the sake of Allah, trusting Him wholeheartedly.
How Does Islam Encourage the Spirit of Sacrifice?
Islam beautifully emphasizes the spirit of sacrifice, urging believers to give selflessly for the sake of Allah and the benefit of others.
This spirit is deeply rooted in the principles of Sadaqah and Zakat in Islam, both of which highlight the importance of sharing one’s blessings with those in need.
The Qur’an repeatedly encourages believers to give generously and reminds them of the immense rewards awaiting those who sacrifice their wealth and resources.
Allah says: “The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed [of grain]. It grows seven spikes, and in every spike are a hundred grains. And Allah multiplies for whom He wills. And Allah is all-encompassing and Knowing.”
(Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:261)
This verse illustrates how every act of giving is multiplied in value, encouraging Muslims to embrace the spirit of sacrifice without hesitation.
Sadaqah: Islamic Charitable Giving
Sadaqah goes beyond material wealth. It includes acts of kindness, offering help, or even a smile.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Charity is due upon every joint of a person each day the sun rises: to act justly between two people is charity; to help a man with his mount, lifting him onto it or hoisting up his belongings onto it, is charity; a good word is charity; and removing a harmful thing from the road is charity.” (Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim)
This hadith highlights that Sadaqah is not limited to wealth. It is about the willingness to give what you can, whether it is your time, effort, or possessions. It cultivates humility, compassion, and gratitude in the giver’s heart.
Zakat: A Divine Obligation
While Sadaqah is voluntary, Zakat is a mandatory pillar of Islam. It requires Muslims to give a fixed portion of their wealth typically 2.5% to those in need. You can calculate the zakat amount using a zakat calculator.
The Qur’an underscores the importance of Zakat: “Take from their wealth a charity by which you purify them and cause them increase, and invoke [Allah’s blessings] upon them. Indeed, your invocations are reassurance for them. And Allah is Hearing and Knowing.”
(Surah At-Tawbah, 9:103)
Through Zakat, wealth is purified, and societal inequalities are reduced. It is a reminder that all wealth belongs to Allah, and by giving, Muslims fulfil their duty to Him and their community.
Islamic history is filled with stories of sacrifice. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) exemplified the spirit of sacrifice throughout his life. He would give away whatever he had, often leaving himself with little to no material possessions.
He said: “The upper hand is better than the lower hand. The upper hand is the one that gives, and the lower hand is the one that receives.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)
This hadith inspires Muslims to strive to be givers, reflecting their trust in Allah’s infinite provisions.
Another powerful story from Islamic history is that of Uthman ibn Affan (may Allah be pleased with him). During a time of drought, water was scarce in Medina. A well owned by a merchant became the only source, but he charged a high price for access.
Uthman purchased the well for a hefty sum and declared it free for everyone. His sacrifice didn’t just quench thirst; it became a source of endless blessings.
How Can You Embrace The Spirit of Sacrifice?
The spirit of sacrifice in Islam is about faith and trust in Allah. It’s about understanding that giving does not diminish wealth but rather increases it in ways that may not always be material.
Allah promises: “Whatever you spend in the way of Allah will be fully repaid to you, and you will not be wronged.” (Surah Al-Anfal, 8:60)
When you give for the sake of Allah, you receive far more in return—peace, contentment, and the joy of knowing you’ve made a difference.
In today’s world, you can embody this spirit by:
- Giving Sadaqah regularly, even in small amounts.
- Ensuring your Zakat obligations are met.
- Volunteering your time and skills to benefit others.
- Supporting causes that uplift your community.
Start today, and be a source of light for those around you.