Generosity is a virtuous trait that every Muslim should strive to attain. As for the believer who closely adheres to the teachings of Islam, kindness and giving from what he has become part of his good character.
Whatever is given for Allaah Ta’ala’s Sake will never decrease one’s wealth in the slightest; rather, it will bless, purify and increase it, as the Prophet (sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam) said: “Charity does not decrease wealth.” (Muslim)
Whatever is given in charity will be recorded with The One Who has full knowledge of all things. Allaah, Almighty, Says (what means): “…And whatever you spend of good – it will be fully repaid to you, and you will not be wronged.’‘ (Quran 2: 272)
And (what means): “…But whatever thing you spend [in His cause] – He will compensate it; and He is the best of providers.” (Quran 34: 39)
Since noble characteristics are acquired in different ways, the Muslim works to develop virtuous traits according to Islamic guidelines. Allaah Ta’ala Says (what means): “And spend [in the way of Allaah] from what We have provided you before death approaches one of you and he says, ‘My Lord, if only You would delay me for a brief term so I would give charity and be among the righteous.’”(Quran 63: 10)
Generosity is not expressed exclusively with wealth and money, but also with our time, good deeds, actions and kindness to all people. Allaah Says (what means): “Never will you attain the good [reward] until you spend [in the way of Allaah] from that which you love…”(Quran 3: 92)
The Messenger of Allaah sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) said: “Protect yourself from the Hell-fire even by giving a piece of a date as charity.” (Al-Bukhaari and Muslim)
This narration shows that a person can be generous and win the pleasure of Allaah even by spending a small quantity of wealth.
The Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) said: “Everyday two angels descend and one of them says, `O Allaah! Compensate (more) to the person who gives (in charity)’; while the other one says, `O Allaah! Destroy the one who withholds (charity, etc).’” (Al-Bukhaari)
A person giving charity should not render it vain by reminders of his generosity or by injury. The giver should be cheerful when asked and when giving. He should spend without being stingy or irresponsible.
Whether giving in abundance from his riches, or a small amount of his meager means, one should give with complete satisfaction, a cheerful face and nice speech.
Islam teaches the Muslims to be constructive, beneficial members of their societies; always helping those who are deprived and destitute to the best of their abilities. Every good deed is described as an act of charity, as the Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) said: “Every Muslim must give charity.” They said, “O Messenger of Allaah, what if he cannot do that?” He, sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) said, “Then let him help one who is in desperate need.” He, sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) said, “Then let him do good, and refrain from doing evil, and that will be an act of charity on his part.” [Al-Bukhaari & Muslim]