10TH EDITION OF VOICE OFTHE MIMBARR: WELFARISM IN ISLAM: POVERTY ALLEVIATION AS A WINDOW II- BY DR. UTHMAN BOLAWAYE

11-08-1444AH/03-03 - 2023CE

 In the name of Allah, the Beneficent the Merciful. 

As a step further on the last edition on the topic, this would take us across taking-on false ground (Al-Yamin) and Symbolic simulation of wife to mother (Izhaar).

 These two factors form parts of the areas of blessings the atonement for which the noble Messenger Muhammad had come showcase.

In the former and the latter cases the holy Qur'an is categorical in stating the consequences which include Atonement (Kaffarah) for the gravity of their offence if committed. False oath is capable of short-changing right owner to the benefit of the false claimer. On the other hand, no sane person would cohabit with his mother in whatever pretence.

In this edition, serious relief measure for atonement for the former include feeding of ten hungry persons (with the direct food materials he consumes), or clothing them, or paying ransom for a slave (Muslim). The Izhaar punishment for offenders also begin with paying ransom for a slave, or fasting for two consecutive months, or feeding sixty poor people. The last option in the latter and the first in the former appear the easiest which is the feeding of the poor.

However, contempt of such provision should not be made to fall into the trap. The fact that provision is made here is enough ground for love and compassion for others in the society. Feeding in particular goes a long way to strengthen people to the discharge of both spiritual and mundane activities. Having empathy for the poor is the main pointer of these provisions. There is no doubt that acting in line with the provisions attracts double-edge benefits to the cross-section of the society.

The glorious Qur'an 5: 89 bears on false oath, its consequences and the provisions for alternative measures of atonement. On the other hand, Qur'an 58: 3-4 bears on Izhaar, consequences and priority for feeding the poor to wade off the pang of hardship of life.

To avoid falling into the situation of payment of penalty through atonement, a Muslim must concern himself with avoiding unceasing feuds in all ramifications,   being perfect Muslim by treading gently, being cautious in love and hatred, and being alive to religious duty of caring for others for comparative advantages for the giver and the beneficiary.

Till next week, ma'as salaamah.

IMAM DR. RAZAQ BOLAWAYE

-Nigeria