SECTION ON ZAKAT · 40 – GIVING AWAY THE ENTIRETY OF ONE'S WEALTH AS CHARITY
Abu Hurayrah, may Allah be pleased with him, said:
I asked the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him: “O Messenger of Allah, what is the most virtuous of charities?” The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, replied: "That which is within the power of the poor person. Begin by supporting those over whom you have responsibility.”
Zayd ibn Aslam, may Allah be pleased with him, narrated from his father, who said:
I heard Umar ibn al-Khattab say: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, commanded us to give charity one day. This command coincided with a row that fell upon me when I possessed abundant wealth. And I said to Abu Bakr one day, "If you are ahead in charity today, it will pass." So I brought half of my wealth. The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, asked me, “What did you leave for your children?” I replied, “I left them half of my wealth.” Then Abu Bakr, may Allah be pleased with him, brought all of his wealth, and the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, asked him, "What did you leave for your family?" Abu Bakr answered, “I left them only what pleases Allah and His Messenger.” I said to him, “O Abu Bakr, I will never surpass you in anything forever.”