Zakat - 4th Pillar of Islam

Zakat is a pillar of Islam and a mandatory act of worship that purifies wealth and soul. It requires Muslims to give a small portion (usually 2.5%) of their wealth to those in need. This promotes justice, reduces poverty, and reminds believers that all wealth belongs to Allah. Zakat strengthens community ties and supports the less fortunate. It is both a spiritual duty and a social responsibility. By giving Zakat, Muslims grow in compassion and gratitude toward the blessings they have.

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💎 The Spiritual Significance of Zakat

The word "Zakat" means purification and growth. By paying Zakat, Muslims purify their wealth from greed and selfishness and help others grow spiritually and economically. It is both an act of worship and a form of social justice, aligning the giver’s soul with the values of mercy and generosity.

🤝 Social Impact of Zakat

Zakat plays a powerful role in bridging the gap between the rich and poor. It reduces poverty, eliminates hunger, and strengthens communities. When wealth is redistributed with sincerity, it brings peace, harmony, and trust among people.

🧑‍💼 Who Must Pay Zakat?

  • Zakat is obligatory upon every Muslim who:

    • Zakat is obligatory upon every Muslim who:
    • Owns wealth above the Nisab threshold
    • Has held that wealth for one full lunar year

    The Nisab is calculated based on:

    • 87.48 grams of gold, or
    • 612.36 grams of silver

    (Using silver is more beneficial for the poor, as it sets a lower threshold.)

📊 How to Calculate Zakat (2.5%) ?

  • 1. Identify Zakatable Assets:
    • Cash, bank savings
    • Gold, silver
    • Business inventory
    • Receivable loans
    • Profitable investments
  • 2. Subtract Immediate Debts:
    • Short-term loans or bills due soon
  • 3. Apply 2.5% on Net Total

    Total Assets = Rs. 200,000

    Liabilities = Rs. 20,000

    Zakatable Wealth = Rs. 180,000

    Zakat Due = Rs. 4,500

🎯 Who Should Receive Zakat? – The 8 Deserving Categories

    The Qur’an (Surah At-Tawbah 9:60) lists eight categories who are eligible to receive Zakat:

  • 1. Al-Fuqara (The Poor)

    Those who have little to no income or possessions.

  • 2. Al-Masakin (The Needy)

    People in difficult financial conditions who may have basic needs but are still struggling.

  • 3. Aamileen (Zakat Administrators)

    Individuals appointed to collect, manage, and distribute Zakat.

  • 4. Muallafatul Quloob (Reconciliation of Hearts)

    New Muslims or individuals whose hearts are inclined toward Islam or harmony with Muslims.

  • 5. Riqab (Those in Bondage)

    To free captives or slaves (includes modern efforts to free people from unjust detention).

  • 6. Gharimeen (Those in Debt)

    People burdened by lawful debts they cannot repay.

  • 7. Fi Sabeelillah (In the Cause of Allah)

    For those striving in the path of Allah (can include Islamic education, humanitarian work, etc.).

  • 8. Ibn al-Sabeel (Stranded Travelers)

    Travelers who are cut off from their resources and need help to return home.

    • Zakat cannot be given to your direct dependents such as parents, children, or spouse. It must go to people who are eligible and not under your financial responsibility.

💼 Zakat vs. Sadaqah

  • ★ Zakat is obligatory with fixed rules.
  • ★ Sadaqah is voluntary and can be given any time, in any amount. Sadaqah includes even kind words, a smile, or helping someone in need.

📅 When to Pay Zakat?

Zakat becomes due once your wealth reaches the Nisab and remains at or above it for one full lunar year. Many Muslims choose to pay Zakat in Ramadan to gain multiplied spiritual rewards.

Zakat is a divine system of economic balance and compassion. It not only fulfills a religious duty but also creates hope, dignity, and stability in the Muslim ummah. It reminds us that wealth is a trust from Allah and sharing it brings us closer to Him and to humanity.