Section

Distinguishing cases in which his intention is apparent from those in which it is not requires explanation, classification, and elaboration. A gift must fall into one of four categories:

First: one intended to seek Allah’s pleasure.

Second: one intended to gain people’s approval.

Third: one intended for the recipient’s sake.

Fourth: one intended both to seek Allah’s pleasure and for the recipient’s sake.

If he intends his gift to seek Allah’s pleasure, and this is known through his own admission or is apparent from his purpose—for example, when a wealthy person gives to a poor person, or someone gives to a needy relative to maintain kinship ties, and similar cases—the gift is governed by the rules of charity: no recompense is due for it, nor may it be reclaimed or revoked. The same applies if he intends his gift to gain people’s approval, except that he receives no reward for it, because the Prophet, peace be upon him, said:

“Actions are judged only by intentions, and each person will have only what he intended. Whoever emigrates for Allah and His Messenger, his emigration is for Allah and His Messenger.” The hadith continues.

If he intends his gift both to seek Allah’s pleasure and for the recipient’s sake—as when he gives a gift neither as charity nor to maintain kinship ties, but says that it is “for Allah” or “for Allah’s pleasure”—he is entitled neither to recompense nor to reclaim it, unless he stipulates this. According to another view, he may reclaim it without any stipulation if the recipient is someone from whom he is legally entitled to reclaim a gift.

If he intends it for the recipient’s sake—as when he gives an unqualified gift, neither as charity nor to maintain kinship ties—it falls into five categories:

First: he gives it for the recipient’s sake because of his love and affection for him.

Second: he gives it for the recipient’s sake to win his affection and love.

Third: he gives it for the recipient’s sake to strengthen the affection and love between them.