Is Paying Zakat An Obligation For Every Practicing Muslim With Means

By Author: Salvatore Andrea
Total Articles: 6261
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Although paying zakat is obligatory in many Muslim countries; it should never be confused with taxes. Contrarily, it is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and every practicing Muslim, who has the means, must pay it voluntarily. Yet, it is not charity and so it should not be confused with sadaqah or sadkka either. One major difference is that, while Zakat is calculated on the net amount after a person has paid for his/her basic necessities, sadaqah is devoid of any such condition. Moreover, one pays Zakat at certain percentage (usually 2.5%) at a fixed time of the year while sadaqah is bound by no such stipulation. Quran also enjoins who can receive aids under Zakat; in case of sadaqah; it can be anybody.

Indeed, Zakat is a unique concept aimed not only at removing all inequalities in the society, but also at purifying the heart of the donor. It is to remind every Muslim that all wealth belongs to Allah and he/she is the only custodian of such wealth. Along with looking after one’s own family, such wealth should be utilized for betterment of weaker section of ...
... the society as well. What is more, the concept of yearly payment is there to remind the devout Muslims that a whole year has passed since they have amassed the wealth and it is time they worship Allah by offering a part of the earning in His service.

Generally, one is required to pay the zakah or Zakat on precious metals such as gold and silver, cash held at home as well as at bank, stocks and share, money one may have lent to others and finally, stock in trade and business. Today, online calculators can be availed to calculate the Zakah amount carefully. Otherwise, one should contact the Zakat committee to have his/her Zakah calculated carefully. The wealth after all belongs to Allah and every devout Muslim should be careful about paying his/her due.