Zakat – in simple terms, the third pillar of Islam

Zakat is one of the five fundamental pillars of Islam. This is the third pillar and it is obligatory for every Muslim who has enough money beyond basic needs. When a Muslim’s wealth reaches a certain limit called the Nisab, then a portion of it must be given to the poor.

What is Zakat?

Zakat means "purification" and "blessing." Giving Zakat purifies one’s wealth and earns the blessings of Allah. Zakat helps spread wealth in society and helps the poor, creates balance and alleviates poverty.

An act of economic service

Zakat, ensures that wealth does not reside only among the rich. This provides support to those in need, builds goodwill and helps reduce poverty. Zakat is not a favor for the poor; That is the duty which Allah commands the rich.

Prophet Muhammad (صَلَّى الـلّٰـهُ عَلَيْهِ وَاٰلِهٖ وَسَلَّم) explained that Islam is based on five pillars: faith in Allah and His Prophet, salah (prayer), giving Zakat, fasting during Ramadan, and Hajj. Zakat is the third act of worship after Salah and is mentioned several times in the Quran. The giving of Zakat comes with many rewards, and it is necessary to understand the rules of Zakat in order to fulfill this obligation properly.

Importance of Zakat

Zakat is mentioned 32 times in the Quran along with Salah (prayer), indicating its importance. Those who pay Zakat receive many blessings in this life and in the Hereafter. It’s not only a charitable cause but also a way to remind Muslims to care for others, especially the less fortunate.

Zakat also reminds wealthy Muslims that their wealth is a gift from Allah and their obligation to help those in need.

Types of Zakat

There are two main types of Zakat:

• Zakat of wealth.
• Zakat on people (such as Sadaqat-ul-Fitr).

Furthermore, cash zakat includes:

• Zakat on gold and silver.
• Zakat is on goods, livestock and crops.

How Zakat Works

Every year, wealth limits are met (Nisab) A Muslim donates 2.5% of his wealth to specific groups in need. Zakat is calculated annually and must be paid conscientiously. It is different from Zakat-ul-Fitr which is given at the end of Ramadan. Zakat helps improve social welfare by distributing wealth among the poor.

Zakat – The obligatory

Zakat is clearly prescribed by Allah in the Qur’an. Allah says, "Establish prayer and pay Zakat" (Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 43). In another verse, Allah says that Zakat purifies the wealth of the giver and brings blessings.

Benefits of Zakat Rewards

1. Fulfilling Faith: Payment of zakat is a sign of fulfillment of one’s faith. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said that the payment of Zakat completes the faith of a Muslim.
2. Mercy to the Giver: The mercy of Allah is upon the one who pays Zakat. The Qur’an says that Allah’s mercy is for those who fear Him and pay Zakat.
3. Path to piety: Zakat goes into taqwa (God-mindedness) and is one of the marks of a pious person.
4. Success in life: The Qur’an promises success to the Zakattu payers. They are among the successful believers.
5. Protection from harm: Giving zakat protects a person from sin. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said that Zakat removes the loss of the giver.

Who can receive Zakat?

The Qur'an basically mentions eight groups for which Zakat is available. Today, there are seven categories:

1. The poor.
2. Because of its importance.
3. Collector of Zakat.
4. Freedom of slaves (no longer valid).
5. People who are in debt.
6. The way of Allah.
7. Travelers in need of assistance.

By observing Zakat, Muslims help build a just, compassionate society where everyone will have the help they need.