Zakat Pillar: Its Importance and Significance in Sunni Islam

In the religion of Islam, there are five pillars that form the foundation of a Muslim’s faith and practice. These pillars serve as the framework for a Muslim’s life, guiding their beliefs, actions, and behaviors. One of these pillars is zakat, an essential obligation for every financially capable Muslim. In this article, we will explore the significance and importance of zakat, from the perspective of Sunni Islam.

Zakat, which means “purification” or “growth”, is the third pillar of Islam. It is an act of worship that involves giving a portion of one’s wealth to those in need, as a means of helping to alleviate poverty and establishing social justice within the Muslim community. The obligation of zakat is deeply rooted in the Quran and the Sunnah, the teachings and practices of the Prophet Muhammad.

The importance of zakat is emphasized throughout the Quran, where it is mentioned frequently alongside other acts of worship such as prayer and fasting. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 177, Allah says, “It is not righteousness that you turn your faces towards the East or the West, but righteousness is in one who believes in Allah, the Last Day, the Angels, the Book, and the Prophets, and gives wealth, in spite of love for it, to relatives, orphans, the needy, the traveler, those who ask [for help], and for freeing slaves.” This verse highlights the significance of zakat as a means of demonstrating true faith and righteousness.

Furthermore, the Prophet Muhammad emphasized the importance of zakat in his teachings and actions. He stated, “Islam was built upon five [pillars]: testimony that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah, establishing the prayer, giving the zakat, Hajj and fasting in the month of Ramadan.” This hadith underscores the integral role of zakat in the practice of Islam, alongside other fundamental acts of worship.

Zakat holds a special place in the hearts of Sunni Muslims, as it serves as a means of fulfilling their obligation to Allah and assisting those in need. It is a form of economic and social justice that aims to ensure the equitable distribution of wealth within the Muslim community. By giving zakat, a Muslim demonstrates their willingness to share their blessings and contribute to the well-being of others, in adherence to the teachings of Islam.

The significance of zakat extends beyond its material impact on the lives of the recipients. It is a means of spiritual purification for the giver, as it purges their wealth of impurities and greed, and cultivates a sense of compassion and empathy towards those less fortunate. In the words of Imam Al-Ghazali, “There is no purification of the soul from the love of wealth and greed except through spending in the way of Allah what you love.”

Moreover, zakat plays a crucial role in strengthening the bonds of brotherhood and solidarity within the Muslim community. By fulfilling their obligation to give zakat, Muslims contribute to the collective welfare of their fellow believers, fostering a sense of unity and compassion that transcends social and economic barriers. This collective responsibility is emphasized in the teachings of Islam, where the well-being of the community is prioritized over individual interests.

From a practical perspective, zakat serves as a form of social security and welfare in the Muslim community, providing for the needs of the poor, the orphans, the widows, and the destitute. It is a means of addressing economic disparities and ensuring that all members of the community have access to the basic necessities of life. This aspect of zakat is particularly significant in the context of contemporary society, where poverty and inequality remain pressing issues.

The obligation of zakat is based on the principle of wealth distribution and the concept of stewardship in Islam. Muslims believe that wealth is a trust from Allah, and it is their responsibility to use it in a manner that is pleasing to Him. This includes donating a portion of their wealth to those in need, as a means of fulfilling their duty to Allah and contributing to the betterment of society.

In conclusion, zakat is an integral pillar of Sunni Islam that holds immense significance and importance. It is a means of demonstrating true faith and righteousness, as well as contributing to the well-being of the Muslim community. By giving zakat, Muslims fulfill their obligation to Allah and demonstrate their commitment to social justice, economic equity, and compassion towards those in need. The practice of zakat serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of humanity and the collective responsibility of caring for one another. It is a symbol of the selfless generosity and compassion that lies at the heart of Islam, and it remains a timeless testament to the enduring values of faith, charity, and social justice.