And this also shows that superiority on the basis of charitable giving can be established only after one has discharged the obligations arising from reciprocal transactions. As Allah Most High says:

“They ask you what they should spend. Say, ‘Whatever you can spare.’”

(Surah al-Baqarah (The Cow): 219)

Anyone who has debts, prescribed obligations, or other such liabilities must discharge them and must not give charity precedence over fulfilling these obligations. If he nevertheless did so, would (1) his charity be rejected? The jurists have two well-known opinions on this question.

This verse is cited as evidence by those who hold that his charity is rejected (2), because Allah praised only “the one who gives his wealth to purify himself, with no favor from anyone awaiting repayment.” If, however, he owes someone such a favor, he must repay it before giving his wealth to purify himself. If he gives his wealth to purify himself before repaying that favor, he is not praiseworthy, and his deed is therefore rejected, in accordance with the Prophet’s words, blessings and peace be upon him:

“Whoever performs a deed that is not in accordance with our way will have it rejected.” (3)

Third: It is authentically reported from the Prophet, blessings and peace be upon him, that he said:

“No wealth has ever benefited me as much as Abū Bakr’s wealth.” (4)

He also said:

“No one has been more generous to us through his companionship and wealth than Abū Bakr.” (5)

By contrast, concerning Alī—may Allah be pleased with him—the Prophet did not mention