Almsgiving - GCSE Religious Studies Definition

What is Almsgiving?

In GCSE Religious Studies, almsgiving is the practice of giving money, clothing, or food to those in need. Alms are any items given to those in need, and almsgiving has been seen as a duty for religious believers of all traditions throughout history. Today, almsgiving is more commonly known as giving to charity.

In Islam, almsgiving is known as Zakah. It is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, meaning it is a duty for all Muslims. The reasons why Muslims practice almsgiving include:

• It helps to create a fairer and more united society.

• Zakah means ‘purification’ and giving money as a source of goodness for others purifies the person who gives it too.

• It helps a person to be free from greed, more spiritual and less materialistic.

• It is a way of worshipping Allah.

All religious believers who can are encouraged by the teachings of their religions to give to charity in some way, donating not only money and goods but also their time and skills. It is common in Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Judaism.