What is the correct course of action for a preacher when he is given a sum of money as a gift from a listener after a lesson on charity, knowing that the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, did not reject gifts, and some scholars do not accept gifts from those they teach, with the fear of the matter being repeated by other worshippers?

The basic principle is the permissibility for a Muslim to accept money that comes to him without asking or expecting it, and this includes the preacher and the teacher. The jurists believe that a gift is not forbidden for the preacher and the teacher, but it is preferable not to accept it if it is in exchange for his work, to ensure sincerity. It is recommended to accept it if it is out of affection for his knowledge and righteousness, along with the recommendation to reciprocate it.

However, if accepting it leads to harm, such as the giver's reproach or its effect on his da'wah and dignity, then it is preferable to avoid it. So if the money comes without request or announcement, and no harm is feared from it, then there is no blame in accepting it; otherwise, not. Some of the Salaf (pious predecessors) followed the path of not accepting gifts at all, as a means of safeguarding the self and purifying the intention.