Zakat is a form of charity that we give to help those in need. It’s not just any gift, but a special kind of sharing that Allah loves. Zakah is a basic pillar of Islam. Zakat ensures that everyone has what they need to live happily. According to Shari’ah, Zakat is a specific portion of wealth that a person discontinues his benefit in every manner and then gives for the pleasure of Allah (s.w.t), to be possessed by a deserving Muslim who is neither a slave nor a freedman belonging to the family of Hashim.
And keep Salah (obligatory prayer) established and pay Zakat
(obligatory charity). (Part 1, Surah Al-Baqarah, Ayah 43)
Why is Zakat Important?
Our Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) told us that Islam is built on five important acts, and one of them is Zakah. This means it’s a crucial part of being a good Muslim. By giving Zakat, we show our love for Allah and our care for the people around us.
O Beloved, take Zakat from their wealth, by which you may cleanse them
and make them pure.
(Part 11, Surah At-Taubah, Ayah 103)
Zakat and Friends
Imagine Zakat as a superhero who teams up with Salah (prayer) and other good deeds. In the Quran, Allah talks about Zakat and Salah together 32 times! They’re like best friends, helping us grow closer to Allah and each other.
Beloved prophet (peace be upon him) has said, ‘He who has paid Zakah of his wealth, indeed, Allah has removed evil from him.’
(Al-Mu’jam-ul-Awsat, vol. 1, pp. 431, Hadees 1579)
Zakat is a Must
Just like brushing our teeth every day is important, giving Zakat is also a must. Allah told us in the Quran that Zakat is Fard, which means it’s something we must do. When we give Zakat, we’re following Allah’s special instructions.
Blessings of Zakat
When we give Zakat, something magical happens! Allah shower us with blessings in this world and the next. It’s like a special reward for being kind and sharing with others. So, not only does Zakat help those in need, but it also brings joy and blessings to our lives.
And My Mercy encompasses all things, so I shall soon decree favors for
those who fear and pay Zakah.(Part 9, Surah Al-A’raf, Ayah 156)
Let’s Be Zakat Heroes
Just like superheroes, we can be Zakah heroes too! Even if we’re small, our love and care can make a big difference. Let’s remember to share our toys, help our friends, and maybe even save some pocket money to give to those who need it. That way, we’re being good Muslims and making the world a better place!
And spend in Our path from the sustenance We have bestowed (upon them).
(Part 1, Surah Al-Baqarah, Ayah 3)
Remember, being a Muslim is like being part of a big family. And just like in a family, we take care of each other. So, let’s be Zakah heroes and spread love and kindness wherever we go!
The Fard Status of Zakah
Zakat became obligatory in the year 2 Hijri, even before the institution of Siyam (fasts). It is a fundamental act of worship and a means of purifying wealth while fulfilling the obligation set by Allah.
Denial of Zakat as Obligation: The Holy Quran clearly states the obligation of Zakat. Denial of its status as an obligation is considered a serious crime, leading to one being classified as a Kafir (one who rejects or rejects Islamic beliefs). The obligation to pay Zakat is deeply rooted in the teachings of Islam, emphasizing the importance of fiscal responsibility and social justice.
Protection from evil
The Zakat-giving person becomes protected from evil as the Rasool Beloved has said, ‘He who has paid Zakah of his wealth, indeed, Allah has removed evil from him.’
(Al-Mu’jam-ul-Awsat, vol. 1, pp. 431, Hadees 1579)
The Meaning Behind ‘The term ‘Zakat’ has a deep meaning, which includes elements of purification, increase, and blessing. Derived from the literal meaning of purity (purification), zakat is a means of purifying wealth, both physically and spiritually. Additionally, it brings blessings increases in remaining wealth, and fosters a sense of gratitude and responsibility.
Types of Zakat: Zakat can be divided into two main types:
There are two types of Zakah:
1. Zakat of wealth
2. Zakat of people (i.e. Sadaqa-tul-Fitr)
There are two additional types of Zakah related to wealth.
1. Zakat of gold and silver
2. Zakaht of trade goods and livestock, and the Zakah of cultivated given called Sadaqat al-Fitr.
Fard Status of Zakah: Zakat is an obligatory act of worship in Islam, which is obligatory on every Muslim of full age and maturity who fulfills certain conditions. Fulfillment of these conditions ensures fair and equitable distribution of wealth within the Muslim community.
Conditions for Zakat Obligation: To be obligated to give Zakaht, a person must meet the following conditions:
a. Ownership of Nisab: The individual must have wealth equal to or greater than the Nisab limit, which is a certain amount determined by Islamic guidelines.
b. Naami (Growing) Nisab: The Nisab owned by the individual should be of a nature that allows for growth, such as money, gold, silver, or other forms of wealth that can increase.
c. Possession of Nisab: The Nisab must be physically in the possession of the individual.
d. Exclusive of Basic Necessities: The amount of the curriculum should be in addition to the individual’s essential needs, ensuring that the calculation does not compromise their basic standard of living.
e. Exclusive of Debts: The individual should not be burdened with debts to such an extent that there is no credit left for repayment.
f. Passage of One Lunar Year: One year should pass with the individual retaining ownership of the syllabus. A lunar year is used for this calculation.
When will a year be complete [for Zakat]?
The date and time when a person became the owner of Nisab, as
long as the Nisab remains, the year will complete at the same minute
when the same date and same time will come
.And whatever you spend in the path of Allah, He will give more in return.
And He is The Best Provider.
(Part 22, Surah Saba, Ayah 39)
DETAILS OF CONDITIONS
Nisab is the minimum threshold of wealth that an individual must possess for Zakat to become obligatory. It acts as a measure to identify those financially capable of contributing to the welfare of the community.
Forms of Nisab: To be recognized as the owner of Nisab, a person should possess one of the following:
Gold: A person is considered to have Nisab if they own 7.5 Tola (a traditional unit of measurement) of gold.
Silver: Possessing 52.5 Tola of silver qualifies as meeting the Nisab threshold.
Cash Equivalent: If a person has an amount of cash equal to the value of 7.5 Tola of gold or 52.5 Tola of silver, they fulfill the Nisab requirement.
Trade Goods: Owning trade goods whose value is equal to the price of 7.5 Tola of gold or 52.5 Tola of silver qualifies as meeting Nisab.
Other Possessions: Possessions, exclusive of basic necessities (Haajat-e-Asliyyah), whose value is equal to the price of 7.5 Tola of gold or 52.5 Tola of silver, also fulfill the Nisab criteria.
Haajat-e-Asliyyah: Haajat-e-Asliyyah refers to basic necessities of life, and their exclusion from the calculation of Nisab ensures that an individual’s standard of living is not compromised when fulfilling the obligation of Zakah.