Is Feeding the Needy on Behalf of the Deceased Permissible in Islam?

Understanding Quran Recitation Gatherings and Charity for the Deceased

Question: I understand that Quran recitation gatherings (Quran Khwani) are separate events where people recite the Quran with the intention of earning rewards or fulfilling a vow made for the completion of a task. The food served at such gatherings is considered an innovation (bid’ah). Similarly, people gather to recite the Quran for the deceased and intend to convey the reward to the deceased, which is also considered an innovation. Regarding the invitation, is it permissible to give charity or spend money or feed people on behalf of the deceased? Is it wrong to recite the Quran for the deceased but correct to feed the attendees with the intention that the reward of the food reaches the deceased?

Answer: Quran recitation gatherings (Quran Khwani) are primarily conducted with the intention of conveying the reward to the deceased, and this practice is not established from the Quran and Sunnah, hence it is considered an innovation (bid’ah). Similarly, if someone conducts a Quran Khwani to fulfill a need or after achieving a goal, it is also considered an innovation. 

Regarding feeding people on behalf of the deceased, it is important to understand this issue correctly. Feeding people and giving charity on behalf of the deceased is permissible, but it should be done for the poor and needy, not for the wealthy. The food prepared during Quran Khwani is associated with the innovative practice of Quran Khwani, and it is served because of this gathering, making it impermissible to eat. Even if someone conducts Quran Khwani and intends to feed people on behalf of the deceased, it is not permissible.

However, without any specific ritual, Quran Khwani, or designated date, if food is given to the poor and needy or charity is done on behalf of the deceased in a general manner, then this act is permissible.

 Sheikh Maqbool Ahmed Salafi Hafizahullah

❪Jeddah Dawah Center, Hayy Al-Salamah – Saudi Arabia❫