ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the forms via which direct aid is provided by Muslim NGOs in Jordan to the needy: the poor, unemployed, orphans and widows. My observations of aid practices will be presented by way of illustration. As much as this is possible, these practices will be analyzed in light of the religious discourses described in the previous chapter. It must be said, however, that the impact of Islamic motivational discourses on the giving of aid is difficult to measure with any degree of accuracy. It simply cannot be demonstrated that such discourses achieve a more moral state of being – i.e. one in which there is greater self-sacrifice, unity of purpose, brotherly cooperation, purity of intention and honesty – than could be achieved from the practice of other religious, ideological or ethical traditions. Reference will be made, however, to discourse on ideals of social solidarity, harmony and cohesion as has been dealt with in part three, in an effort to demonstrate how they relate to the Muslim NGO's aid practices. The concepts of dependency, discipline and empowerment will figure highly in the analysis of the practical approaches toward such ideals.
