Zakat, also known as Zakah, is a form of religious obligation and purification that is enjoined upon all adult and financially able Muslims. It is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, along with Shahada (faith), Salah (prayer), Sawm (fasting), and Hajj (pilgrimage to Mecca). In this article, we will explore the definition, significance, eligibility, and key facts about Zakat.
By fulfilling our religious duty and give Zakat online this Ramadan, we can extend a helping hand to those who are in dire need. Our dedicated teams are stationed in the most impoverished regions, utilising their local expertise to reach and support the most vulnerable individuals. With our contributions, we can bring about lifesaving and life-altering aid to those who need it the most.
What is Zakat: Zakat Meaning
Zakat is derived from the Arabic word ‘Zaka’ which means ‘to grow’ or ‘to purify’. In Islamic terms, Zakat refers to the mandatory act of giving a portion of one’s wealth to those in need. The purpose of Zakat is to purify the remaining wealth and bring about equality in society by providing for the less fortunate.
Importance of Zakat
Zakat plays a crucial role in Islamic society, as it helps to promote social and economic stability. The act of Zakat creates a sense of unity and belonging within the community and is seen as an act of worship that brings blessings from Allah. The act of paying Zakat also serves as a reminder of the value of wealth and its proper use.
Types of Zakat
Zakat al Mal
Zakat al Mal refers to the mandatory payment of 2.5% of one’s wealth, including cash, savings, investments, and gold, that has been held for a full lunar year. This type of Zakat is the most well-known and widely practised.
Zakat al Fitr
Zakat al Fitr is a form of Zakat that is given during the month of Ramadan. It is a compulsory payment made by all Muslims to help provide food and basic necessities for those in need during the Eid Al-Fitr celebrations.
Zakat Hadith
The act of giving Zakat is highly emphasised in the Hadith (the sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad). In several Hadith, Prophet Muhammad stated that the payment of Zakat purifies one’s wealth and protects it from negative influences. He also emphasised that Zakat is a means of drawing closer to Allah and ensuring a place in heaven.
Benefits of Zakat
Unification in the cause of Allah
The act of paying Zakat creates a sense of unity within the Muslim community, as it brings people together for a common cause. By giving to those in need, Zakat promotes the concept of compassion and caring for others, which is a fundamental principle of Islam.
Protection from Hellfire
In several Hadith, Prophet Muhammad stated that the payment of Zakat protects one from the punishment of hellfire. By giving to those in need, one is pay zakat fulfilling an act of worship that brings blessings and protection from Allah.
Promote Belongingness in a Society
Zakat helps to promote a sense of belonging within the Muslim community. By giving to those in need, Zakat promotes the concept of compassion and caring for others, which creates a strong bond between individuals within the community.
Zakat Rules
Zakat has several rules and regulations that must be followed in order to be considered valid. These rules include:
- The payment of Zakat must be made voluntarily and without coercion.
- The recipient of Zakat must be in need and eligible for its receipt.
- The payment of Zakat must be made in accordance with the guidelines set by the Prophet Muhammad and Islamic law.
- Zakat must be paid on wealth that has been held for a full lunar year.
Who is eligible for Zakat?
Zakat must be given to those in need, including:
- The poor and destitute
- Those who are in debt
- Those who are in need of support for their education or religious studies
- Travellers in need of assistance
- Those working to collect and distribute Zakat
Who is eligible to give Zakat?
All adult and financially able Muslims are eligible to give Zakat online. This includes those who have a certain minimum amount of wealth, known as the Nisab, which must be met before Zakat becomes mandatory.
Nisab Meaning
Nisab refers to the minimum amount of wealth that must be held by a Muslim in order to be eligible to pay Zakat. The amount of Nisab is calculated based on the current market value of gold and silver. The current Nisab threshold is approximately $5,000.
How to calculate Zakat
To calculate Zakat, one must first determine their wealth and assets, including cash, savings, investments, and gold. Once this has been done, 2.5% of the total value must be set aside as Zakat. This amount should then be given to those in need, in accordance with the guidelines set by Islamic law.
How to calculate Zakat on salary
To calculate Zakat on salary, one must first determine their total income for the year. This includes all forms of income, including salary, bonuses, and investments. Once this has been done, 2.5% of the total income must be set aside as Zakat. This amount should then be given to those in need, in accordance with the guidelines set by Islamic law.
Zakat Facts
- Zakat is one of the Five Pillars of Islam.
- Zakat must be paid on wealth that has been held for a full lunar year.
- The amount of Zakat to be paid is 2.5% of one’s wealth.
- All adult and financially able Muslims are eligible to give Zakat online.
- The payment of Zakat must be made voluntarily and without coercion.
- Zakat must be given to those in need, including the poor and destitute, those in debt, travellers, and those in need of support for their education or religious studies.
Zakat FAQs
Q: How often must Zakat be paid?
A: Zakat must be paid once per lunar year on wealth that has been held for a full year.
Q: Who is eligible to receive Zakat?
A: Zakat must be given to those in need, including the poor and destitute, those in debt, travellers, and those in need of support for their education or religious studies.
Q: Is Zakat mandatory for all Muslims?
A: Yes, Zakat is mandatory for all adult and financially able Muslims who meet the Nisab threshold.
Q: Can Zakat be given to non-Muslims?
A: No, Zakat must be given to Muslims in need.
In conclusion, Zakat is a form of religious obligation and purification that plays a crucial role in Islamic society. It serves as a reminder of the value of wealth and its proper use, promotes unity and belonging within the Muslim community, and brings blessings and protection from Allah.
By following the guidelines set by Islamic law and the example of the Prophet Muhammad, Muslims can fulfil their obligation to give Zakat online and make a positive impact on the lives of those in need. The payment of Zakat should be done voluntarily, with a genuine intention to help those less fortunate and bring oneself closer to Allah. It is a demonstration of one’s faith, generosity, and commitment to supporting the well-being of their community.
