by Sheikh Faaik Gamieldien

Introduction

Zakáh is one of the five fundamental institutions of Islam. It is second only to prayer as an essential article of the faith. Zakáh forms an integral, compulsory and inseparable part of the Islamic way of life. The non-observance or neglect of Zakáh is tantamount to a negation of the faith itself. The early Meccan revelations emphasized the moral aspect of Zakáh and persuaded Muslims to offer it voluntarily. It was not until the second year of Hijrah that Zakáh was made obligatory on all Muslims. An example of one of these revelation is:
"Zakáh is for the poor and the needy and those employed to collect the funds, and for those whose hearts are inclined towards the faith, and to free the captive, and for those in debt, and in the cause of Allah, and for the traveller, a duty imposed by Allah. And Allah is All-Knower, All-Wise." (Q9:60) Apart from Zakáh, which is an obligatory charity, Islam also encourages voluntary giving known as Sadaqah. This voluntary alms giving, is not just mere handouts to the poor for self-gratification or public show. On the contrary, it serves to confirm our faith in a Generous God that smiles upon the generous spirit. Sadaqah knows no distinction of status, race or even creed. It begins with one's family, and then extends to the poor, the traveller and even the enemy. Allah Almighty declares:" They feed (others) for the love of Him: destitute, orphan and captive." (Q76:8)

Read more: Zakah at a Glance