What is Faith?

There is charity in forgiveness Abu Abbas ibn Hibr relates that one day the Prophet exhorted people to donate something towards the struggle for God’s cause, and people gave according to their means. One of the Prophet’s Companions Ulbah ibn Zayd ibn Haritha, did not, however, have anything to give. He arose that night and, weeping before God, prayed to Him: “Lord I have nothing to give to charity. Instead Lord, I forgive whoever has brought me dishonour.” In the morning when the Companions had gathered, the Prophet asked them, “where is the one who gave something to charity last night?” When no one arose, the Prophet repeated his question. Still no one answered. Then, when the Prophet had repeated his question for the third time, Ulbah ibn Zayd Haritha arose. “Rejoice,” said the Prophet, “for your gift to charity has been accepted.” (AL-BIDAYAH WA AL-NIHAYAH)