Advice on perception when giving Sadqa to the needy
| Fatwa #2401 | Category: Miscellaneous | Country: Zambia | Date: 5th August 2026 |
| Fatwa #2401 | Date: 5th August 2026 |
| Category: Miscellaneous | |
| Country: Zambia | |
Question
Salams.
Please advise if possible on this dilemma I have.
I have a habit of checking how sensible or well dressed a street beggar is before giving them anything. If I perceived them to not be in their senses or simply lazy I avoid giving anything.
Is this an acceptable practice or should one simply give Sadqa for the sake of Allah & have faith that it is going to someone truly needy?
Answer
In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh.
Shari’ah discourages people who are able to work and earn to suffice on begging. Having said that, one should avoid making judgements as it is nearly impossible to actually know the true background and circumstance of a beggar.
It is acceptable to avoid giving sadaqah to those whom one strongly thinks will utilise the funds for vices as opposed to necessities.
Ideally, one should look for individuals one feels strongly require assistance. And to avoid those whom one considers undeserving is fine. However, there is a thin line between this and simply judging people based on appearance.
And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best
Mufti Bilal Pandor
Concurred by
Mufti Muhammad Patel
Darul Iftaa Mahmudiyyah
Lusaka, Zambia