What is the ruling on giving money to beggars? Is it permissible to refrain from giving to them as a way of discouraging them? And how can this be reconciled with the Almighty's saying: "And as for the beggar, do not repel him"? Should the Friday خطيب (preacher) warn against giving to beggars at mosque entrances? And how should we deal with beggars who may be incapacitated or ill?
The poor and the needy are to be believed in their claim unless outward appearances contradict them. If it is known that the asker does not need charity, then they should not be given. Voluntary charity is recommended, not obligatory. The noble verse, "And as for the petitioner, do not repel [him]" means a prohibition against rebuffing the petitioner with harsh words.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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