Zakat (Obligatory Almsgiving) and its Impacts (Css 2016,2017)
Introduction
Zakat is the third pillar of Islam and is a form of worship that involves wealth. However, it is obligatory upon Muslims to pay a portion of his earnings once in a lunar (Hijra) year to the poor and the needy when their earnings reach a prescribed amount (called “Nisab” ) above their needs. Commanded to the Muslims in the second year of Hijra Allah (SWT) says in the Holy Qur’an:
“And establish regular Prayer and give Zakah, and bow down your heads with those who bow down (in prayer).” (2:43)
What the word Zakat means?
It derives from the Arabic word “Zakah” which means “cleanliness, purification, increase, growth, righteousness, blessing and praise.”
Nisab of Zakat
Niṣâb is the Arabic word that names the minimum quantity the Prophet, on him be peace, set as a fixed threshold at which a Muslims must pay Zakat from eligible wealth. Different types of assets have different specified thresholds. Literally, niṣâb means “origin” because the right of the poor and Zakat-worthy on one’s wealth begins at this limit of its accumulation.
| Nisab of Zakat | |
| Type of Possession | Nisab of Zakat |
| Money/ Wealth/ Income | 2.5 % |
| Silver | 52.5 tolas |
| Gold | 7.5 tolas |
| Camel | 5 camels |
Masarif of Zakat
Here is the list of eight recipients of Zakat who can accept Zakat:
- The poor
2.The needy
3. Zakat administrators
4. Those whose hearts are to be reconciled, meaning new Muslims and friends of the Muslim community.
5. Those in bondage (slaves and captives.)
6. The debt-ridden.
7. In the cause of God.
8. The wayfarer, meaning those who are stranded or traveling with few resources.
Importance of zakat in Quran and Hadith
“One who pays Zakat, Allah will make their wealth increase” (Sahih Bukhari) “
The best charity is to pay Zakat on one’s wealth” (Sahih Muslim) “
Zakat is a right that the poor have upon the rich” (Sahih Bukhari)
“Giving Zakat is more beloved to Allah than giving in charity during the entire year”
(Sahih Bukhari)
What are the benefits of paying Zakat?
Zakat has many benefits and several positive impacts on the society.
- It is for the welfare of the unprivileged people of society.
- It is the blessing of Allah (SWT) for the giver and the receiver, as it improves the economy of a nation.
- It establishes a society on humanitarian grounds.
- It removes the economic hardship for the poor and reduces the inequality among different groups of people in society.
- It satisfies the recipient’s needs and alleviates his financial and mental suffering. Thus, it creates love and brotherhood between the rich and poor, minimizes social tensions, and bridges the gap between the poor and rich. In this way, Zakah develops social and economic security in the community and brings all members closer together.
Spiritual, Moral and social impacts of Zakat
1. Fulfilling a religious obligation
Zakat is one of the five pillars of Islam, making it an obligatory act of worship for all Muslims who meet certain eligibility criteria.
This obligation is not just a spiritual duty but also a social contract, deeply rooted in Islamic teachings and the Quran.
2. Helping those in need
Zakat helps to provide financial assistance to less fortunate individuals, helping them meet their fundamental necessarily and live with dignity.
This extends beyond immediate relief and aims for long-term sustainability, such as funding for education and job training.
3. Promoting social justice
Zakat plays a considerable role in promoting social justice and reducing revenue inequality in society.
That is by encouraging people to care for each other and fostering a sense of community and cohesion. Besides, it ensures everyone can get necessities such as food, shelter, and healthcare.
This creates a more equitable distribution of resources, thereby reducing poverty and social tension.
4. Purifying one’s wealth
Paying Zakat purifies one’s wealth and removes any ill-gotten gains that may have been acquired during the year.
It serves as a form of spiritual cleansing, ensuring that one’s assets are earned and spent in accordance with Islamic principles.
5. Strengthening community bonds
Zakat is a communal obligation that strengthens the ligament between Muslims as they work together to help those in need.
This collective action not only helps the recipients but also fosters unity and mutual respect among community members.
6. Fostering gratitude
Paying Zakat encourages gratitude by reminding individuals of the blessings and abundance Allah has given to them. That makes them more appreciative of what they possess.
This heightened sense of gratitude often leads to a more content and fulfilling life.
7. Encouraging charitable giving
Zakat forms a precedent for charitable giving and encourages Muslims to give generously and regularly to those in need.
It serves as a model for additional voluntary donations, known as Sadaqah, which can be given at any time and in any amount.
8. A Way Of Earning Rewards From Allah (SWT)
Zakat is considered a righteous deed and a means of getting rewards from Allah (SWT) in life and hereafter.
These rewards are not just spiritual but also promise better social harmony and personal satisfaction.
9. Balancing Spiritual And Material Well-being
Zakat provides a balance between spiritual and material well-being by emphasizing the importance of both.
It teaches that material wealth is not an end but a means to achieve spiritual and social harmony.
10. Being accountable to Allah
Paying Zakat is a form of accountability to Allah (SWT), reminding Muslims that their wealth is a trust from Allah and must be used wisely and ethically.
This sense of accountability extends to how one earns and spends money, ensuring ethical financial practices.
If today the whole world follows the principle of Zakat, all the financial problems, unemployment, and poverty would vanish, thus reducing crime and frustration in society.