Which of the two is more worthy of charity in Ramadan: feeding those who are fasting or sponsoring an orphan?

The preference for certain acts of worship over others varies depending on individuals, times, and circumstances. Generally, continuous remembrance of Allah is considered the best deed after the obligatory duties. Deeds are not measured by their quantity, but by their completion, perfection, and conformity to Allah's pleasure and law. Delving into preferences without specific guidance is a risk and mere conjecture. Among the most important rules of preference is choosing based on the broader benefit, as the act of worship that provides greater benefit yields a greater reward.

When choosing between feeding a fasting person and sponsoring an orphan, one must consider the circumstances and situation. Feeding a fasting person may be prioritized if there is a neglect in feeding poor fasters, or if the fasting person is a relative or neighbor, or if they are in urgent need. Sponsoring an orphan, on the other hand, is prioritized when there are many orphans, especially during times of hardship and war, as orphan sponsorship includes care and upbringing in addition to feeding.

The virtue of charity increases with the increased need of the recipient, the status of the giver (relative, needy), the charity being continuous and ongoing, and its alignment with virtuous times and places.

Among the most important reasons for the varying rewards of deeds is what resides in the heart of the doer: their turning to Allah, their sincerity in supplication, and their surrender and submission to His command. The true preference of deeds is determined by the preference of what is in the hearts, such as faith, sincerity, and love.