Is it permissible to give charity to the needy out of compassion, not to seek closeness to Allah, and does this constitute polytheism (shirk) or diminish the reward compared to one who gives charity seeking His pleasure? And is gratitude due to Allah alone? What are the acts that are performed for Allah alone and are not permissible to do for anyone else? What are the acts that combine seeking Allah’s pleasure and bringing happiness to creatures?

The reward for deeds is linked to sincere intention for the sake of Allah Almighty. Deeds are of two types: The first type is pure acts of worship, such as prayer and fasting, which require sincere intention for Allah; otherwise, there is no reward for them, and they may even be a sin. The second type is acts of obedience related to people's rights and showing kindness to them, such as helping and giving charity. Performing these without sincere intention for Allah will not earn reward in the Hereafter, even if it is good in this world, and its reward is hoped for in this world. As for performing good deeds out of ostentation (riya'), it is a minor shirk, forbidden, and void.