Zakat In Islam

Understanding Zakat: Meaning and Purpose

Zakat, the third pillar of Islam, is a call for charity and sharing one’s wealth with the less fortunate. It’s a form of worship and a way of living in alignment with the path set by Allah. Not everyone is required to give annual donations, only those who meet specific criteria must pay Zakat as a religious duty.

Explaining the Meaning of Zakat

The term “Zakat” literally means ‘to increase’, but technically, it signifies ‘that which purifies’. In Islam, it’s a foundational principle that purifies an individual’s earnings in a year. This includes excess wealth in the form of money in the bank or at home, possession of gold/silver, agricultural produce, livestock earnings, and profits from stocks and investments. This practice helps free an individual from greed and selfishness, fostering peace and harmony within society.

Significance of Zakat According to Quran

The importance of Zakat is underscored in the Quran, mentioned more than 80 times. It requires individuals to be sincere in accurately calculating and giving their Zakat. This devotion to faith draws them closer to Allah, the ultimate truth in the world. Zakat plays a crucial role in maintaining social order and eradicating begging. Moreover, a fair distribution of wealth among the affluent and the less fortunate helps eliminate social ills like slavery, exploitation, and crime. The central idea behind this annual donation is to promote brotherhood and unity among Muslims worldwide, all in the name of Allah, the Almighty.

Types of Zakat

Zakat al Mal:

This is the most common type of Zakat. It is the yearly donation made on an individual’s wealth. This includes money in cash, gold, silver, and property.

Zakat al Fitr:

Another important obligatory donation for Muslims is Zakat al Fitr. It must be given before Eid within a specified time frame for it to be valid.

Benefits of Zakat

Unification in the cause of Allah

According to a hadith, an Angel prays to Allah for the well-being of the person who donates for divine purposes. This act of charity aligns an individual’s path with the one shown by Allah, bringing them closer in purpose.

Protection from hellfire

Allah holds a special affection for those who demonstrate righteousness and obedience with unwavering faith. Islamic scholars suggest that timely donations shield a person from the fires of hell, and on the Day of Judgment, Allah grants them a secure abode.

Promotion of belongingness in society

Donations form the basis for a fair distribution of wealth, uplifting the impoverished and needy. In doing so, it diminishes the social divide between the affluent and less fortunate, reaffirming the equality of every individual as intended by Allah.

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Who is Eligible for Zakat?

If an individual’s annual income reaches a certain minimum amount, they have a responsibility to donate a portion of their wealth. This obligation continues every year from the day this income threshold is met. It’s important not to delay this charitable act, as it is a duty upon the individual.

Furthermore, Zakat al-Fitr is to be paid by the head of the family at the conclusion of Ramadan. For each fasting member of the family, Zakat al-Fitr must be given in either money or food. The amount should be equivalent to the value of one-day fasting for each member.

Who is Eligible to Receive Zakat?

There are eight categories of people who are eligible to receive the donated wealth:

  • Fakir – These are individuals who are poor and in need of assistance.
  • Miskin – This category includes those who are hungry and have nothing to eat.
  • Amil – The Amil is the zakat collector who distributes it on behalf of others, ensuring it reaches those in need.
  • Riqab – This category refers to enslaved people or captives who require financial support.
  • Gharmin – These are people in debt, struggling to repay their obligations.
  • Fisabilillah – These individuals work towards the cause of Allah and are eligible to receive zakat.
  • Ibnus Sabil – This category includes stranded travelers who are in need of financial assistance.
  • Muallaf – These are new members or converts to Islam who may require financial support during their transition.