A Hadith states that the Companions used to understand 'maun' in this sense. Nasa'i says that every noble deed is an act of charity. In the days of the Prophet (sallahu alayhi wa sallam) lending of anything of domestic use was regarded as 'ma'un'.

'Ali Numairi reported that the Prophet (sallahu alahyi wa sallam) said : "A Muslim is the brother of another Muslim. when he is greeted, he must respond and offer a greeting in return. He should not refuse Ma'un." I asked, "what was Ma'un? The Prophet (sallahu alahyi wa sallam) said,  "Stone (cooking pot), iron (axe) and other similar things."