What is Zakat and Why is it Important

Love and peace are the messages that surround the Islamic religion. The religion itself is presented in a way that strives to have its followers live in peace and harmony not only with other religions, but with the other people of the world as well. Those who follow Islamic Religions aim to assist and help others and strive to make the world a better place for all. When it comes to the topics of making a better world and assisting those living in the world beside us, the Islamic religion puts a strong emphasis on charity. However, many people are unsure what exactly Zakat is, or how they can pay it. builders

Charity is so important within the Islamic religion, that is an obligation that comes in a concept known as Zakat. Zakat is actually one of the major pillars of Islam. Zakat charity is even mandatory for followers who have enough wealth. There are many misconceptions surrounding Zakat, however, that are common among followers of the religion.

Zakat is the fourth pillar within the Islamic religion. It generally refers to purifications. When you get down to the specifics, Zakat is directly related to the purification of wealth. This means that for Muslims that have wealth exceeding a certain amount, they are liable to pay Zakat on that wealth and give it to individuals and families less fortunate than themselves who lack the means to live their life with basic necessities. Some wonder why they should pay from their hard earned income and give it to others. Northern Virginia

The importance of Zakat extends beyond the rewards given by Allah for paying it and the punishments delved out if it is intentionally not paid. First of all, Zakat is an important building block within society. It helps those who are less fortunate. It keeps society from being disrupted due to those at the top of the income list not sharing their wealth with those less fortunate. It allows those in poverty to have a chance to live the same standard of life. Second, it allows money to circulate. Zakat is charity, and all charity leads to money going to those who need it. It allows money to circulate throughout the entire economy and throughout all class levels pertaining to wealth. Third, it teaches the importance of making sacrifices. It shows that they love the order of Allah more than their own personal, material things. It also teaches the importance of sacrificing for the good of all society. marble

Not everyone in life is able to enjoy the same standard of living. However, when you participate in Zakat, in charity, you are allowing those on the bottom of the income class to have a better standard of living. Not everyone stuck in poverty is lazy. In fact, most are just dealing with the hand life dealt them. Zakat is a way for a community to come together and ensure everyone’s needs are being met.