Giving to God: Islamic Charity in Revolutionary Times

Giving to God explores the everyday practices of Islamic giving in post-revolutionary Egypt, where individuals frame their actions within a unique non-compassionate ethics of giving to the poor, avoiding many of the problems associated with traditional charity.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 26 February 2019
Publisher: University of California Press

Giving to God delves into the intricate tapestry of Islamic giving practices in post-revolutionary Egypt. It explores a wide range of acts, from the preparation of nourishing meals in Sufi soup kitchens to the distribution of sustenance by pious volunteers in impoverished slums, and even includes the act of almsgiving. These acts, however, transcend mere charity and are rooted in the ultimate act of giving to God by extending a helping hand to the less fortunate.

What may initially strike one as self-centered is, upon closer examination, a profound ethical framework that seeks to alleviate the suffering of others. This unique perspective on giving challenges the conventional notion of charity and offers a fresh perspective on social justice. By providing individuals with the means to support themselves, rather than simply handing out aid, this form of giving aims to empower and transform lives.

The author draws upon the Egyptian uprising in 2011 as a backdrop, highlighting the urgent call for social justice and the need for transformative change. Through the lens of this ethnography, the author suggests that the act of "giving a man a fish" may hold greater revolutionary potential than simply "teaching a man to fish." By providing the necessary tools and resources, this approach fosters self-sufficiency and independence, enabling individuals to break free from the cycle of poverty and achieve a better quality of life.

Giving to God offers a thought-provoking exploration of the intersection of faith, philanthropy, and social change. It challenges us to reevaluate our assumptions about charity and encourages us to explore alternative models that prioritize empowerment and self-determination. This book serves as a valuable resource for scholars, activists, and anyone interested in understanding the complex dynamics of Islamic giving practices and their potential to create a more just and equitable world.

Weight: 360g
Dimension: 228 x 153 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520300835