As one of the pillars of Islam, zakat is a form of obligatory charity that has the potential to ease the suffering of millions. With the literal meaning of the word being 'to cleanse,' Muslims believe that paying zakat purifies, increases and blesses the remainder of their wealth.
Why is Zakat the most important pillar of Islam?
Zakah means 'that which purifies'. By giving money to charity, Muslims can cleanse their wealth. It is important that Muslims do not get attached to unnecessary things such as money and possessions. Muslims see wealth as ultimately belonging to Allah, and giving Zakah helps to make people more equal.
What are the principles of giving zakat in Islam?
Zakat is said to purify yearly earnings that are over and above what is required to provide the essential needs of a person or family. Zakat is based on income and the value of possessions. The common minimum amount for those who qualify is 2.5%, or 1/40 of a Muslim's total savings and wealth.
What is benefit of Zakat?
The Benefits of Giving Zakat It purifies your wealth as Allah says in the Qur'an: It keeps one away from sin and saves the giver from the moral ill arising from the love and greed of wealth. Through Zakat, the poor are cared for; these include widows, orphans, the disabled, the needy and the destitute.