Adab al-Mufrad

Benefits and Issues:
➊ The word "armlah" is commonly translated as "widow," but this term is used for any destitute woman, whether her husband has died or she never had one at all. As for the definition of "miskin" (needy), it refers to someone who possesses something, but it is not sufficient to fulfill his needs. In one hadith, the Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa sallam) said: A miskin is not the one who goes around to people's houses (begging); in reality, a miskin is the one whose needs are not fulfilled, and from his outward appearance it is not apparent that he is needy so that charity would be given to him, nor does he extend his hand to people asking for help. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Book of Zakat, Hadith: 1479)

➋ Striving and making efforts for the welfare and betterment of destitute women, children, and those in need is a very great deed. Everyone lives for themselves, but the real matter is that a person should live for others. Those who seek Paradise should, in addition to prayer and fasting, also advance in this field, for this is the great path by which one can reach the ranks of the mujahidin (those who strive in Allah's cause) and the devoted worshippers.

➌ Helping and supporting the helpless has been likened to jihad fi sabilillah (striving in the path of Allah), fasting during the day, and standing in prayer at night. From this, it is understood that jihad fi sabilillah, fasting, and tahajjud (night prayer) are superior acts, because resemblance is only given to something with that which is superior. (Sharh Sahih al-Adab al-Mufrad, by Hasan al-‘Awda)