In Surah Al-Mu’minoon: The Essence of Zakat
In Surah Al-Mu’minoon, Allah describes the believers as those who are observant of Zakat. These verses, revealed in Makkah, transcend the formal obligation of Zakat established later. As Imam Ibn Kathir explained, this reference signifies a broader spiritual purification—both of wealth and the soul. Zakat not only cleanses wealth but also liberates the heart from greed, encouraging generosity and humility.
The Golden Period of Zakat: Umar ibn Abdul Aziz
The reign of Umar ibn Abdul Aziz (99–101 AH) is often hailed as the Golden Age of Zakat. His governance epitomised justice and equity, ensuring that Zakat reached every corner of the Ummah. It was during his rule that Zakat distribution became so effective that historians recount there were no eligible recipients left to accept it. This period exemplifies the transformative power of Zakat when administered with sincerity and justice.
Umar ibn Abdul Aziz’s administration was marked by a profound understanding of the true spirit of Zakat—to eradicate poverty, uphold justice, and build a community founded on compassion. His policies ensured that wealth did not circulate solely among the rich but was utilised to uplift the poor and fulfil communal obligations.
The Threefold Purpose of Zakat
Zakat serves three essential purposes:
- Wealth Distribution: Ensuring wealth reaches those in need.
- Purification of the Heart: Freeing believers from greed.
- Economic Balance: Preventing monopolies and fostering equity.
Allah’s Messenger ﷺ sternly warned of the consequences of neglecting Zakat. He likened hoarded wealth to a poisonous serpent that will confront its owner on the Day of Judgement, a reminder that wealth’s true purpose is to uplift others.
“And let not those who covetously withhold of that which Allah has bestowed on them of His Bounty think that it is good for them. Nay, it will be worse for them…” (Qur’an 3:180)
Zakat al-Fitr: Completing the Fast
The Prophet ﷺ obligated Zakat al-Fitr as a purification for the fasting person, rectifying any shortcomings in one’s fast. Ibn Abbas reported that Zakat al-Fitr serves as sustenance for the poor and must be given before the Eid prayer to be counted as Zakat; otherwise, it is deemed voluntary charity.
A Shield from Evil
Charity has a profound ability to ward off evil. As the Prophet ﷺ affirmed, the act of giving purifies wealth and distances harm from the giver. Jabir reported that the Messenger of Allah ﷺ said:
“Whoever pays alms on his wealth, his evil will depart from him.”
This principle highlights that wealth is a test and a means through which believers can attain Allah’s mercy.
Giving from What We Love
The Qur’an challenges believers:
“Never will you attain the good [reward] until you spend [in the way of Allah] from that which you love.” (Qur’an 3:92)
The essence of this command is to give not merely from surplus but from what is cherished—transforming giving into an act of devotion and love for Allah.
Consistency in Charity
The hallmark of true faith is not only the act of giving but the constancy in giving. The Prophet ﷺ highlighted that continuous charity is a sign of a sincere believer, one who finds sweetness in faith by generously sharing their blessings each year.
Ali (RA) emphasised the profound societal impact of Zakat, suggesting that if every eligible Muslim fulfilled this obligation, poverty would be eradicated. Likewise, Uthman (RA) reminded us that our need for giving is greater than the need of those who receive, for charity is deposited first with Allah before it reaches the hands of the needy.
Conclusion: Fulfilling Our Duty to the Ummah
Zakat is not merely a financial obligation but a spiritual practice that purifies, protects, and elevates the soul. Forgotten Ummah is committed to supporting the most deprived parts of our Ummah—those living far below the poverty line and in desperate need. It is our duty to fulfil our Zakat to aid our brothers and sisters who need it most.
Give your Zakat today—help uplift the Ummah.
Read more about the spiritual benefits of Zakat, to calculate your zakat download MyZakat.
