Giving in Religions is often viewed through the lens of specific doctrines, but is it actually a universal law? As we established in our previous discussion on Human Fitra and Giving, giving is not just a lesson taught in schools. Instead, it is an innate nature—a “Fitra”—that we are born with. It is an internal operating system that inclines us toward goodness.
However, a skeptic might ask: “Is this belief in the ‘innateness’ of goodness exclusive to the Islamic worldview? What about the rest of the world? Can we speak of giving in religions as a shared human principle?”
The answer is a resounding Yes. A journey through history and civilizations reveals that humanity agrees on one truth: Giving is the hidden law of the universe. To give is to be in harmony with this law; to withhold is to deviate from it.
The Christian Perspective: “The Law Inscribed on the Heart”
In Christianity, we find a concept that mirrors “Fitra” almost literally: Natural Law. In the Epistle to the Romans, Saint Paul discusses those who did not receive a revealed scripture but still perform acts of goodness. He explains:
“For the work of the law is written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness.”
Christianity posits that God placed a “compass” within every human called conscience—often described as the “voice of God within the soul.” When a Christian practices charity (Caritas), they are responding to a Natural Law engraved in the heart. While the terminology differs from the Islamic “Fitra,” the essence remains identical.
Eastern Philosophy: Harmony with “Dharma” and “Karma”
Looking toward the Far East, Hinduism and Buddhism offer a cosmic vision of giving that is perhaps even more comprehensive. Their belief system centers on “Dharma,” meaning the “Cosmic Order” or “Eternal Law.”
In this worldview, the entire universe—from the orbit of planets to the growth of a leaf—operates on a precise system of giving and exchange.
The Mechanics of Karma and Dāna
This is where the concept of “Karma” becomes essential. Karma is not merely a system of reward and punishment; it is the law of moral causality. * Giving (Dāna): When you give, you are not simply performing a social duty. You are restoring balance to yourself and the universe.
- Energy Exchange: By giving, you plant positive energy that must, by law, return to you.
- Mode of Existence: In Eastern thought, to give is to be “alive” and in tune with the flow of life.
The Shared Human Heritage: Why We Are Designed to Give
When we look at this panoramic view of human belief, a striking pattern emerges:
- The Muslim calls it “Fitra”: A divine disposition toward goodness.
- The Christian calls it “Natural Law”: A moral legislation inscribed on the heart.
- The Buddhist calls it “Dharma”: Harmony with the universal system.
This global consensus proves that humanity is designed to give. Selfishness is not our natural state; it is an anomaly. Giving is not a loss of wealth—it is the only way to be “human” in the fullest sense of the word.
Conclusion: Moving from Spirituality to Science
Is this universal law of giving merely a spiritual sentiment? Can modern science prove that this “Natural Law” exists within our biological makeup? join us in the next article as we transition from the “Monk’s Temple” to the “Scientist’s Lab” to explore: “The Love Hormone and the Helper’s High: When Science Proves Revelation.”
By: Abdullah Hussain Al-Neama
