Social Obligations and Sincerity in Fulfilling Them

Question:
The questioner says: Honorable Shaykh, may Allah grant you success, there are social obligations that a person finds himself in great difficulty if he does not fulfill them, as these obligations impose themselves on him. For example, if one of his close female friends gives birth, and the woman merely thinks about leaving her without help or doing her a favor, she finds a strong disapproval within herself, as if it were an obligatory matter, and she feels compelled to provide that help, even though the Shari'ah has not made it obligatory. She then feels that the action is for other than Allah and is not sincere. What is your guidance in this matter?

Answer:
There is no obligation except what Allah and His Messenger have made obligatory. However, good customs that involve helping those in need and assisting them are good. This is righteous work. Allah the Exalted said: This is cooperation in righteousness and piety. A person is rewarded for it, and it is not showing off (riya'), but rather righteous work, cooperation, good customs, doing good, and kindness. This is a good thing. And Allah the Exalted knows best, and may Allah send prayers and peace upon our Prophet Muhammad, and upon his family and all his Companions.