How Do I Strike a Balance between Religious Virtues?

Answered by Shaykh Abdul-Rahim Reasat

Question

How do I balance religious virtues, such as learning Arabic versus public reminders, and spending my wealth versus giving charity?

Answer

I pray you are well.

Benefiting Yourself and Others

In general, anything which benefits yourself and others is superior to what benefits just yourself. If you are studying Arabic with the intention of working towards scholarship, then prioritize this over a public reminder as it will bring more benefit in the long term. Do not leave the reminders altogether though, as “Indeed, the reminder benefits believers.” [Quran; 51:55]

The Correct Attitude Towards Charity

With charity, it is good to give generously and frequently. However, if you have dependents prioritize them, because spending on them is considered charity too.

Don’t neglect them, because spending on them is something you will be asked about. The Messenger of Allah, Allah bless him and give him peace, said, “It’s shockingly grave sin for a man to neglect those he is obliged to support!” [Abu Dawud]

Also, enjoy what Allah has given you of wealth – but with the intention of giving thanks to Him for it. Allah loves gratitude, just as He loves generosity. Enjoy what He gives you with thanks, and give generously what He gives you with thanks for being in the position to give to others. Don’t give away so much that you end up in need yourself.

May Allah grant you the best of both worlds.
[Shaykh] Abdul-Rahim
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani

Shaykh Abdul-Rahim Reasat began his studies in Arabic Grammar and Morphology in 2005. After graduating with a degree in English and History he moved to Damascus in 2007 where, for 18 months, he studied with many erudite scholars. In late 2008 he moved to Amman, Jordan, where he continued his studies for the next six years in Sacred Law (fiqh), legal theory (Usul al-fiqh), theology, hadith methodology, hadith commentary, and Logic. He was also given licenses of mastery in the science of Quranic recital and he was able to study an extensive curriculum of Quranic sciences, tafsir, Arabic grammar, and Arabic eloquence.