Book of Gifts

Section
The Classification of Gifts

It is related from Ali ibn Abī Tālib, may Allah be pleased with him, that he said: Gifts are of three kinds: a gift intended to seek Allah’s pleasure; a gift intended to win people’s favor; and a gift given in expectation of recompense. A gift given in expectation of recompense may be reclaimed by its giver if he receives no recompense for it.

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It is as he said, may Allah be pleased with him: the giver has what he intended and sought through his gift. His intention in giving must fall into one of three categories:

First, he seeks Allah’s pleasure and hopes for a reward from Him.

Second, he seeks people’s favor, giving ostentatiously so that they will praise and commend him for it.

Third, he seeks recompense from the recipient. The Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said: “Deeds are judged by intentions, and each person will have only what he intended. Thus, whoever’s emigration was to Allah