The Concept of Îthâr in the Qur an

The Qur an comprises various fundamental concepts concerning social cooperation and solidarity, such as zakat, sadaqah, infaq, ihsan, and taâvun. One of these concepts is îthâr. This study explores the concept of îthâr by first identifying all the words deriving from this root in the Qur an and specifying their menings; and then focusing on the interpretation of the ninth verse of the Sûrah Al- Hashr covering the terminological meaning of the concept; and finally presenting several examples from al-asr al-saadah (the age of bliss). Îthâr is one s giving a slice of bread or a drop of water one needs to others; it is to prefer others to oneself. It is a kind of self-sacrifice and generosity - in fact, the climax of generosity. Both the prophet and his companions have displayed some of the best and well-known examples of such self-sacrifice. Îthâr is one s disregard of one s own sorrows and sufferings, and instead struggling to heal others miseries. It is a sublime feeling, a noble character trait, and a good manifestation of love, respect, compassion and brotherhood among humans.