2. Surah Al Baqarah

The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

لَّيْسَ عَلَيْكَ هُدَاهُمْ وَلَـكِنَّ اللّهَ يَهْدِي مَن يَشَاء...

2: 272. It is not required of thee (O Messenger), to set them on the right path, but Allah sets on the right path whom He pleaseth.

C320. In connection with charity this means that we must relieve those really in need, whether they are good or bad, on the right path or not, Muslims or otherwise. It is not for us to judge in these matters. Allah will give light according to His wisdom.

Incidentally it adds a further meaning to the command, "Let there be no compulsion in religion" (2:256). For compulsion may not only be by force, but by economic necessity.

In matters of religion we must not even compel by a bribe of charity. The chief motive in charity should be Allah's pleasure and our own spiritual good. This was addressed in the first instance to Mustafa in Madinah, but it is of universal application.

... وَمَا تُنفِقُواْ مِنْ خَيْرٍ فَلأنفُسِكُمْ وَمَا تُنفِقُونَ إِلاَّ ابْتِغَاء وَجْهِ اللّهِ...

Whatever of good ye give benefits your own souls, and ye shall only do so seeking the "Face" of Allah.

C321. See note to 2:112.

Wajh means literally: face, countenance; hence, favour, glory, Self, Presence.

... وَمَا تُنفِقُواْ مِنْ خَيْرٍ يُوَفَّ إِلَيْكُمْ وَأَنتُمْ لاَ تُظْلَمُونَ ﴿٢٧٢﴾

Whatever good ye give, shall be rendered back to you, and ye shall not be dealt with unjustly.

Asad’s Version:

2: 272 It is not for thee ( O Prophet) to make people follow the right path, since it is God (alone) who guides whom He wills.