The Importance and Place of Gifts in Our Religion
Gifting is among the Sunnahs that our Prophet (peace be upon him) considered very important. While our Prophet always advised Muslims to give gifts to each other, there are also many hadiths about the benefits of gifting. However, when giving a gift, it is our religious duty to choose the gift we give very carefully and to select gifts with high spiritual value. Choosing our gifts from religious gift items is almost a necessity to fulfill the purpose of gifting. So, what are religious gifts? Although many people think only of the Holy Quran when it comes to religious gifts, actually religious books, all kinds of objects decorated with religious motifs, or even religious jewelry are among them. The important thing is that the gift reminds the person of Allah and the true religion, touches their heart, and creates spiritual value in them. Gifting is among the matters that Muslims should pay attention to. By gifting each other, Muslims make small touches to each other's hearts while also establishing stronger bonds between them. While almost everyone likes to receive gifts, we should learn to love giving gifts as much as receiving them. The material value of the gift should never be considered; it should be known that the important thing is the act of gifting.
Why Should Muslims Gift Each Other?
Our Prophet (peace be upon him) said in a hadith, “If you are given a gift, give a gift in return. If you cannot find anything to give, then pray for him, so that the gift is not left unrequited.” Thus, he gave the good news that a Muslim's prayer for his Muslim brother is accepted as a gift in the eyes of Allah. The fact that a gift has the power to prevent all grudges and resentments that may arise between people is why our religion attaches importance to gifting. The most important reason for Muslims to gift each other is that the gift strengthens the bonds in mutual relationships. Our religion also commands that gifts should be given to those in need, thus advising Muslims to help each other. However, care should be taken in choosing gifts, and selections should be made from spiritual gifts that will bring people closer to Allah. In this way, the purpose of gifting will be fulfilled, and the Sunnah of our Prophet (peace be upon him) will be followed.
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