Q: Some members in our relatives give food in the name of others (instead of Allah). They tell that the reward of this charity goes to a particular person soul, also some say that we can give food, clothes etc... in the name of prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam). Is it really true? Some give food after a death of a man (within 3 days and 40 days), some read Quran for their souls to be rewarded, is all of these are permissible? Could you please explain me.
A: To do any charitable work in the name of any person besides Allah Ta`ala is shirk. One may do a charitable work for the pleasure of Allah Ta`ala and ask Allah Ta`ala to convey the reward of this good deed to the person of your choice.
And Allah Ta'ala (الله تعالى) knows best.
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