Allah Ta'ala says, “…Whatever wealth you spend, it is for parents, near relatives, orphans, the needy and the traveller, and whatever good you do, Allah surely knows it.” (Surah Baqarah – V: 215)
Nabi (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said “To give alms to a needy person brings one reward, while giving the same to a needy relative brings two: one for charity and the other for respecting the family ties.” (Tirmizi)
It is a general observation that when charity is being discharged, close family members are overlooked. This is unfortunate as the Hadith encourages assisting family members as a matter of preference and importance.
Whilst directing charity to others is valid and in order, helping family and relatives first is encouraged and more rewarding. This will ensure that relatives do not need to extend their hands to others to fulfil their needs. Additionally, empowering and uplifting one's relatives, neighbourhood and community will be a means of easing difficulty in one's family and community.
Assist your family first
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