Is It Permissible to Request Donors to Avoid Small Coin Donations?
Answered by Shaykh Irshaad Sedick
Question
Is it permissible to request donors to avoid small coin donations (e.g., 1, 2, 5, 10 cents) due to challenges in counting and limited staff for managing these in the mosque’s charity collection?
Answer
In the Name of Allah, Most Merciful and Compassionate. May Allah’s peace and blessings be upon His Messenger, Muhammad (Allah bless him and give him peace).
It is permissible to guide donors on the practicalities of managing charity collections, including requests to avoid small coin donations. This request can be based on efficiency considerations, especially if limited staff and logistical challenges make handling small denominations difficult.
Employing Wisdom
However, it is vital to ensure that such guidance is conveyed respectfully and thoughtfully, emphasizing that all donations, regardless of size, are valuable and appreciated. Islam encourages charity in all forms, as even small amounts can bring immense reward, as highlighted in the hadith: “Protect yourself from Hellfire even with half a date (in charity).” [Bukhari; Muslim]
Conclusion
To maintain the spirit of inclusivity and generosity, it would be advisable to frame the request as a practical suggestion rather than a restriction. This approach ensures that those who wish to donate smaller amounts are not discouraged or feel excluded while also addressing the operational concerns of the mosque.
And Allah knows best.
[Shaykh] Irshaad Sedick
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Mohammad Abu Bakr Badhib
Shaykh Irshaad Sedick was raised in South Africa in a traditional Muslim family. He graduated from Dar al-Ulum al-Arabiyyah al-Islamiyyah in Strand, Western Cape, under the guidance of the late world-renowned scholar Shaykh Taha Karaan.
Shaykh Irshaad received Ijaza from many luminaries of the Islamic world, including Shaykh Taha Karaan, Mawlana Yusuf Karaan, and Mawlana Abdul Hafeez Makki, among others.
He is the author of the text “The Musnad of Ahmad ibn Hanbal: A Hujjah or not?” He has served as the Director of the Discover Islam Centre and Al Jeem Foundation. For the last five years till present, he has served as the Khatib of Masjid Ar-Rashideen, Mowbray, Cape Town.
Shaykh Irshaad has thirteen years of teaching experience at some of the leading Islamic institutes in Cape Town). He is currently building an Islamic online learning and media platform called ‘Isnad Academy’ and has completed his Master’s degree in the study of Islam at the University of Johannesburg. He has a keen interest in healthy living and fitness.
