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This article is a part ofRamadan
Lending a helping hand to those who need it.
The above sentence perfectly outlines the ideology behind Zakat in a nutshell. Zakat is one of the five pillars of Islam and is an act ordained by Allah (swt). However, by following Allah’s (swt) commandments and showing obedience to His will, Muslims also enjoy reap the benefits of Zakat in the process. The benefits are both for the giver and those brothers and sisters around the world who receive the Zakat.
The concept of Zakat dates back over a thousand years, back to the time of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). It just goes to show how important looking after the Muslim community was back then; a prospect that is infinitely more important today with the total Muslim population in excess of one billion people. With millions of Muslims today donating 2.5% of their net yearly savings towards Zakat and charity, the Muslim Ummah continues to provide and care for those who are unable to support themselves and their families.
By having the sharing out wealth with the poor, society as a whole prospers. Those who have savings are able to share a portion of their wealth with the poor, thus giving them the opportunity to fulfil their basic needs and prosper.
Paying Zakat is also about spiritual blessing. The process of Zakat is purification of the soul and of an individual’s wealth. By giving, Muslims spread the blessing that Allah (swt) has granted them open themselves up for earning more. On the other hand, those who are disabled, elderly or can’t make ends meet get a much needed helping hand to keep things running. It’s a win-win situation for both parties.
Through Zakat, Muslims help other Muslims like a single body or family, as Zakat donations go towards the betterment of Muslim Ummah. Zakat ensures that the Muslim Ummah shares its wealth and more people get the opportunity to get on their feet and become self-sufficient individuals so that they too in the future can donate Zakat.
This Ramadan, lets embrace this gift given to us by Allah (swt). Let’s do our part in reviving this obligation and fulfilling our duty towards our Lord and our brothers and sisters in need. Give your Zakat through Muslim Aid and donate generously this Ramadan. Visit Muslim Aid’s blog for more details on our different aid campaigns projects that are funded by Zakat donations.