Zakat (Taxes and Alms)
What is Zakat
Zakat is the fourth pillar of Islam, which can more appropriately be called the purification of wealth. It is a kind of tax which requires a Muslim to give up a certain amount of his possessions (2% rate on a yearly basis) for the upkeep of the poor and those who have no earning capacity; for the destitute; for travelers in need; for those serving in the way of Islam, for those fighting in the way of Allah; for slaves to buy their freedom; and for benevolent works. The amount varies according to the type of property owned. The tax can be levied on land, livestock, and liquid assets (gold, silver, stocks, and bonds etc.).
The Beneficiaries of Zakat:-
Islam identified the beneficiaries of Zakat as Allah says in The Holy Quran chapter 9 verse 60:
“Indeed, donations (Zakat) are only for the poor and the destitute and those who administer them and for those whose hearts are reconciled and for freeing slaves and for the debt-ridden ones and in the way of Allah and for the homeless traveler-an ordinance from Allah, And Allah is All-knowing, All-Wise”.
A Muslim should try his best to fulfill one or more of those categories, or simply give his Zakat to a charitable organization that will deliver it to those entitled to it.
1-The poor who cannot meet their basic needs.
2-The destitute who live in poverty.
3-Those who administer Zakat and distribute it.
4-Those who recently accepted Islam or expected to embrace Islam.
5-Slaves who need money to buy their freedom.
6-Those who have debt and cannot pay it.
7-Those who struggle in the way of Allah, like those who defend their religion or country.
8-The homeless traveler who has financial difficulties.
What is Sadaqa?
Sadaqa means giving charity as a way of worshiping Allah without being obligatory, Sadaqa is an Arabic word derived from the word “Sidq” and it means sincerity which means that it is a sign of sincerity of faith to give Sadaqa for the sake of Allah.
Sadaqa can be by giving money, clothes, foods, all kinds of help, Sadaqa can even be by a smile, and it can be at any time, no specific time entitled.
Prophet Muhammad PBUH said “Every good deed is a Charity (Sadaqa)”
Also, Prophet Muhammad PBUH said “Smiling in your brother’s face is Sadaqa (Charity)”.