{"_id":"668da0380b76658b4c23314c","title":"Can Muslims give charity to non Muslims if they fear them using it for haram?","question":"I've heard different opinions on the permissibility of giving money to non-muslims experiencing homelessness, poverty, etc. I've heard that you shouldn't give someone money (and instead give them food) for fear that they could spend it on something haram and the sin would also fall on you. How does this align with Islam’s command for muslims to treat all beings with respect and dignity if we are to assume a non-muslim would spend my charity in sinful ways?  Wouldn't it be more islamic to assume positive intent, and hope that this individual spent the money  on food/water/medical expenses, etc? Why would it matter if someone were to use the money to buy drugs or alcohol? Withdrawal is incredibly arduous and could kill someone, so if they spend my money to get a fix, it could be helpful in the moment whereas giving them food might not mean much to them.","answer":"It's permissible to give as long as you do not know with certainty or have overwhelming doubt that the money will be used for sinful acts. This same criteria applies to Muslims and non-Muslims alike. Secondly, we are obligated to maintain a positive opinion of people (husn zann), regardless of their faith. Thirdly, it's not controversial because there might be exceptional circumstances where it could be considered permissible, regardless of the person's faith. Centuries ago, scholars acknowledged the permissibility of continuing drug use during detoxification because of the severe risks of quitting  'cold turkey'.","tags":[{"_id":"668d9fe40b76658b4c23283a","tag":"Contemporary Life: Other","count":138},{"_id":"668d9fe30b76658b4c23280f","tag":"Relationships: Non-Muslims","count":96},{"_id":"668da0370b76658b4c233134","tag":"Worship: Charity","count":65}],"createdOn":"2024-07-09T20:40:24.080Z"}