Answered by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani
Walaikum assalaam,
The scholars mention that the Qur'anic command to "cooperate in righteousness" applies to cooperating with non-Muslims in promoting human good. As such, one can help humanitarian efforts, as long as there aren't strong reasons not to (such as the group having an immoral agenda, etc.).
Similarly, one should be careful with Church groups, because a lot of their humanitarian efforts have missionary underpinnings, as I found when I worked for almost two years with Catholic missionaries on an African news service.
Wassalam,
Faraz Rabbani
MMVIII © Faraz Rabbani and Qibla.
All rights reserved
No part of this article may be reproduced, displayed, modified, or distributed without the express prior written permission of both copyright holders. For permission, please submit a request at our Helpdesk.
The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said, "Knowledge is only through study." While some knowledge can be gained from reading or casually listening to lectures, the best means to gain knowledge is through finding a qualified teacher and then setting up a systematic program of learning. Picking up a book or reading an article and trying to figure things out on our own is no substitute for learning from someone who has a direct link to our living tradition.
Through joining an online class at Qibla, you can benefit from convenient, online courses that will give you access to reliable scholars and our popular curriculum learning tracks. Knowledge gained in these courses will both build your iman and assist you in putting into practice what you learn. Don't give yourself less than you deserve, register today.