What is the ruling on giving away all one's wealth when lacking self-sufficiency or reliance?
Chapter on Zakat al-Fitr
Al-Mughni
Book of Zakat
Primary text
If the giver does not possess self-sufficiency or the confidence mentioned previously, giving away all his wealth is disliked (Makruh). This is evidenced by the incident narrated by Abu Dawud where a man offered all he had, like the weight of an egg of gold, and the Prophet turned away from him until the man came from behind, at which point the Prophet took it and threw it back forcefully, stating, "What is best is charity given from surplus wealth." The intent behind this disliked ruling is to prevent the person from subsequently begging from people, as confirmed by the action where the Prophet rebuked a man who accepted two garments from charity and immediately cast one off after being prompted to give charity, telling him, "Take your garment back."
Supporting text
Additionally, when a person expends all his wealth, he cannot be secure from the trial of poverty and the strong pull of the soul towards what was relinquished, potentially leading to regret, nullifying the reward, and making him a burden upon the people. It is also disliked for one who lacks patience for hospitality to diminish his own complete sustenance.