Importance of Zakat in the Light of Qur’an and Sunnah
Importance of Zakat in the Light of Qur’an and Sunnah Zakat is the third pillar of Islam and an essential act of worship. It refers to the obligatory charity that every eligible Muslim must give to the poor and needy from their wealth. The term “zakat” literally means “purification” and “growth.” In Islam, paying zakat purifies wealth and fosters social and economic justice. Its importance is repeatedly emphasized in the Qur’an and Sunnah, making it a cornerstone of Islamic faith and practice. 1. Importance in the Light of the Qur’an 1.1 Zakat as a Divine Obligation Allah says in the Qur’an: “Establish prayer and give zakat, and bow with those who bow [in worship].” — (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:43) This verse shows that zakat is mentioned alongside salah (prayer), indicating its high status in the religion. It is not optional but a clear obligation on every eligible Muslim. 1.2 Zakat is a Condition of Righteousness “It is not righteousness that you turn your faces towards the East or the West, but righteousness is in one who believes in Allah… and gives wealth, in spite of love for it, to relatives, orphans, the needy…” — (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:177) True piety includes giving wealth to the needy. Zakat is a means of proving one’s sincerity and commitment to Allah. 1.3 Warning for Neglecting Zakat “And those who hoard gold and silver and do not spend it in the way of Allah — give them tidings of a painful punishment.” — (Surah At-Tawbah 9:34) This verse warns against hoarding wealth and neglecting zakat. It indicates that withholding zakat is a serious sin with consequences in the Hereafter. 1.4 Zakat Purifies Wealth “Take from their wealth a charity by which you purify them and cause them increase, and invoke Allah’s blessings upon them.” — (Surah At-Tawbah 9:103) Zakat purifies both the wealth and the soul of the giver. It cleanses greed and selfishness, bringing barakah (blessing) in one’s wealth. 2. Importance in the Light of the Sunnah 2.1 Pillar of Islam The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: “Islam is built upon five: the testimony that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah; establishing prayer; giving zakat; fasting Ramadan; and pilgrimage to the House.” — (Sahih Bukhari & Muslim) Zakat is one of the five foundational pillars, without which one’s Islam is incomplete. 2.2 Protection Against Punishment The Prophet ﷺ said: “Whoever is made wealthy by Allah and does not pay the zakat of his wealth, then on the Day of Judgment, his wealth will be turned into a bald-headed poisonous male snake with two black spots over the eyes. The snake will encircle his neck and bite his cheeks saying: I am your wealth, I am your treasure.” — (Sahih Bukhari) This hadith shows the severe consequences of neglecting zakat and highlights its importance in ensuring salvation in the Hereafter. 2.3 Zakat as a Social Responsibility The Prophet ﷺ said: “Protect your wealth by giving zakat, treat your sick by giving charity, and face the trials with supplication.” — (Tabarani) Zakat is not only a financial obligation but also a way to bless one’s wealth, protect against trials, and support the community. 2.4 Zakat Prevents Misery and Greed The Prophet ﷺ said: “When the zakat is not paid, rain is withheld from the sky, and were it not for the animals, it would not fall at all.” — (Ibn Majah) Neglecting zakat leads to social and environmental consequences. This hadith links charity to societal well-being. 3. Spiritual and Social Benefits Purification of the soul from greed and materialism. Barakah (blessing) in wealth. Closeness to Allah through fulfilling one’s duty. Support for the poor, needy, orphans, and others in need. Reduces economic inequality and prevents hoarding. Builds a strong and caring society where wealth circulates and benefits all. 4. Categories of Zakat Recipients (Asnaf) According to Surah At-Tawbah (9:60), zakat can be given to: The poor The needy Those employed to collect zakat Those whose hearts are to be reconciled To free captives Those in debt In the cause of Allah The wayfarer This system ensures zakat reaches those most in need and serves various social and moral causes. Conclusion Zakat is not just a financial duty — it is a spiritual purification, a social obligation, and a divine command. It is a form of worship that reflects the values of justice, compassion, and generosity in Islam. The Qur’an and Sunnah both emphasize that a society without zakat suffers from injustice and imbalance. By giving zakat sincerely, a Muslim draws closer to Allah, purifies his wealth, and contributes to a just and compassionate world.