Importance of Zakat in Islam
Zakat is the third pillar of Islam and is a religious obligation, intended to purify wealth, but we will tell you more about the importance of Zakat in Islam.
Zakat is a mandatory charity that all eligible Muslims must pay if they meet specific financial criteria. In addition, it stands as the third pillar of Islam. The eligible amount is 2.5% of a person’s wealth, payable once a year. By paying Zakat, Muslims fulfil a key spiritual and social responsibility, drawing closer to Allah and aiding the less fortunate. Unlike voluntary charity (sadaqah), Zakat is obligatory and goes beyond personal generosity, operating as a means to uphold economic balance within the Muslim community.
Zakat is in the Quran and Hadith, underscoring its importance as a duty to Allah and a form of justice to society.
In the Quran, Allah instructs Muslims to “establish prayer and give Zakat” (Quran 2:43), indicating that Zakat holds a position of importance similar to prayer itself. So, the Importance of Zakat in Islam by fulfilling Zakat, Muslims not only obey Allah’s commands but also contribute to a fairer society.
The Prophet Muhammad also emphasized the importance of Zakat, saying, “Charity is a necessity for every Muslim” (Sahih Bukhari). He reminded his followers that the money given in Zakat benefits not only the individual who pays it but also the entire Muslim community. Through Zakat, wealth circulates among society, preventing concentration in a few hands and promoting a fair economic balance.
There are several categories under Zakat, which include:
The annual wealth tax covers assets like cash, savings, and investments.
A fixed charity is given at the end of Ramadan, usually calculated based on the cost of staple food items, ensuring that even the poor can partake in Eid festivities.
For those who possess livestock or agricultural land, specific rules apply, as these are seen as part of an individual’s wealth.
For assets like natural resources and buried treasures, a portion is given as Zakat, following specific guidelines.
Zakat al-Fitr is specifically given at the end of Ramadan, before the Eid al-Fitr prayer. This form of Zakat, paid by every Muslim who can afford it, helps ensure that the less fortunate can celebrate Eid with joy. The purpose of Zakat al-Fitr is to cleanse the soul from any minor mistakes or shortcomings during fasting and to unite the Muslim community in charity at a time of celebration. It is typically paid in the form of staple food, such as rice or wheat, or as an equivalent amount of money, which is then distributed to those in need.
In conclusion, Zakat is a foundational aspect of Islam that embodies social justice, compassion, and economic equity. As a mandatory act of charity, Zakat purifies wealth, strengthens faith, and also addresses poverty in Muslim society.
Related posts: What is Islamic finance?
Zakat purifies wealth, promotes spiritual growth, ensures economic justice, fosters social unity, and fulfils the divine obligation.
Zakah is vital in Islam as it purifies wealth, promotes social justice, and fulfills religious obligations.
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Zakat: The Basic Rules for One of the Five Pillars of Islam
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