Abstract
This chapter outlines the conceptual underpinnings of the notion of charity. More specifically, the notion of charity is explained in the religious contexts of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, and Judaism. This chapter also maps the historical shifts to decouple Western notions of charity from religious associations.
Keywords:
Charity, Agapé, Sadaka, Zakat, Compassion, Dana, Religion, Religious History, Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, Hinduism, Secularization of state, Separation of church and state, Ramadan, Religious NGOs, Secular NGOs, Iftar.