لِلْفُقَرَآءِ ٱلَّذِينَ أُحْصِرُوا۟ فِى سَبِيلِ ٱللَّهِ لَا يَسْتَطِيعُونَ ضَرْبًا فِى ٱلْأَرْضِ يَحْسَبُهُمُ ٱلْجَاهِلُ أَغْنِيَآءَ مِنَ ٱلتَّعَفُّفِ تَعْرِفُهُم بِسِيمَـٰهُمْ لَا يَسْـَٔلُونَ ٱلنَّاسَ إِلْحَافًا ۗ وَمَا تُنفِقُوا۟ مِنْ خَيْرٍ فَإِنَّ ٱللَّهَ بِهِۦ عَلِيمٌ 273
Translations
[Charity is] for the poor who have been restricted for the cause of Allāh, unable to move about in the land. An ignorant [person] would think them self-sufficient because of their restraint, but you will know them by their [characteristic] sign. They do not ask people persistently [or at all]. And whatever you spend of good - indeed, Allāh is Knowing of it.
Transliteration
Lil-fuqaraa alladhina uhsiroo fee sabeel illah la yastateeoon darban fil-ard yahsabuhumu al-jahil aghniyaa mina at-tafaffuf tarifuhum bi-simahim la yas'aloon an-nasa ilhafa wa ma tunfiqoo min khayr fa-inna Allaha bihi aleem
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah describes a specific category of poor people (al-fuqara) who are devoted to the path of Allah and unable to travel/seek livelihood in the land due to constraint or disability. Their dignity and self-reliance are so evident that the ignorant might mistake them for wealthy people, recognizing them only by certain signs (disheveled appearance, etc.), and they refuse to beg from people insistently. The verse emphasizes that whatever charitable wealth is spent on such people, Allah is fully aware of it and will reward accordingly. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir note this ayah specifically addresses those hindered in Allah's service, establishing their worthiness for zakah and voluntary charity.
Revelation Context
This ayah is part of the detailed legislation on zakah (alms-giving) in Surah Al-Baqarah, revealed in Madinah. The broader context (2:177-2:282) establishes comprehensive guidelines for Islamic social welfare and charitable giving. The specific mention of those 'constrained in the way of Allah' reflects the early Islamic community's experience, where some believers were unable to earn due to their dedication to religious learning, defense of the faith, or physical disability.
Related Hadiths
Sahih Muslim records that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: 'The best charity is when one is in need yet gives,' which aligns with the dignity of those described here. Additionally, Sunan Abu Dawud contains narrations about the Prophet's concern for the poor who do not ask, emphasizing proactive support for the self-reliant needy.
Themes
Key Lesson
Muslims are encouraged to identify and support those in genuine need, especially the dignified poor who refuse to beg, recognizing that sincere charitable giving is an act of worship fully witnessed by Allah. This ayah teaches empathy and proactive compassion, urging believers to look beyond outward appearances to understand others' true circumstances and needs.