Islam demands consistent efforts from believers to exhibit their faith in Allah (SWT). Taqwa, or the fear of Allah (SWT), is central to the Islamic faith and practices. Ramadan presents the perfect opportunity for believers to obtain piety by observing fasting, praying, and giving charity. That’s why most Muslims choose to give their Zakat charity during Ramadan. A survey at Indiana University revealed that almost 70% of American Muslims prefer to give their Zakat donations during Ramadan. The trends may be similar in other parts of the world because Muslims generally believe that noble deeds done during Ramadan result in greater rewards from Allah (SWT). In this article, we will explore why Zakat is important in Islam and how its importance is raised during Ramadan.
The importance of Zakat
Zakat holds a central significance in Islam. All adult, sane Muslims who possess wealth equal to or exceeding the Nisab value are required to give 2.5% of their total possessions to eligible Muslims. The Nisab value is equivalent to 612.36 grams of silver. Zakat becomes obligatory as soon as a Muslim reaches the Nisab amount. It must be given each lunar year on the anniversary of the day the Nisab value was attained.
The believers must fulfill duties ordained by Allah (SWT). The Quran tells us:
“And establish prayer and give zakah, and whatever good you put forward for yourselves – you will find it with Allah. Indeed, Allah of what you do, is Seeing.” (Surat Al-Baqarah, 2:110).
Note that the Zakat Nisab 2025 in Pakistan is PKR 179,689.
Purifies Personal Wealth
While Islam strictly prohibits earning money through wrongful means, giving Zakat with your halal wealth will purify it further. Hence, Allah (SWT) allows us to lighten our burden of sins.
Means to fight poverty:
Unfortunately, we live in a world full of disparities. The World Bank states that almost 700 million people live in extreme poverty, and in 2021, 4.5 billion people had no access to essential health services. It is our responsibility to contribute to changing the world, and Zakat provides us with the means to do so. The UNDP reports that the annual global Zakat pool can be between US $200 billion and US$1 trillion. These numbers indicate that by giving regular Zakat, we can change many lives.
Challenges Greed:
By giving Zakat, we challenge our love for accumulating money. The Quran says:
“And you love wealth with immense love.” (Al-Fajr, 89:20)
Avoiding unnecessary love for wealth and power is extremely important for believers, as it promotes taqwa.
Promotes Communal Harmony:
Zakat brings people together. Islam emphasizes the need for unity and harmony among people. By giving Zakat, we get an opportunity to understand the problems that people face and give them hope for a better future. The Quran asks believers to maintain respect while giving charity:
“O you who have believed, do not invalidate your charities with reminders or injury as does one who spends his wealth [only] to be seen by the people and does not believe in Allah and the Last Day. His example is like that of a [large] smooth stone upon which is dust and is hit by a downpour that leaves it bare. They are unable [to keep] anything of what they have earned. And Allah does not guide the disbelieving people” (Al-baqarah – 264)
The Significance of Ramadan
Ramadan is one of the most sacred months in the Muslim calendar. During this month, the Quran was revealed. It is a time of peak spirituality. While Zakat can be paid at any time of the year, many Muslims choose to do so during Ramadan due to its extraordinary importance. Many Muslims prioritize Zakat and highlight it in their Ramadan Calendar.
Anas narrated that: the Prophet (ﷺ) was asked which fast was most virtuous after Ramadan? He said: “Sha’ban in honor of Ramadan” He said: “Which charity is best?” He (pbuh) said: “Charity in Ramadan.” (Jami` at-Tirmidhi, 663)
Making Zakat donations during Ramadan comes with many benefits. Let’s explore some of these benefits:
It reminds Muslims of their Zakat Obligations
Zakat has to be paid within a lunar year. However, we all live busy lives and some of us may forget this extremely important obligation. Ramadan works as a great reminder. Your Zakat ul Maal and Zakar ul Fitr donation can help you gain many spiritual rewards while helping those in need.
Fasting and Zakat Help Develop Empathy:
All healthy Muslims are required to fast during Ramadan. From Fajr to Maghrib, they abstain from food, drinks, and all immoral acts. While fasting has many other benefits, it also helps us understand the pain and hunger of less fortunate people. Hence, fasting and Zakat urge us to be more compassionate.
Ramadan’s Great Rewards:
The last stage of Ramadan promises safety from hellfire. Moreover, it carries Laylatul Qadr, one of the most sacred nights in the Muslim calendar. All prayers and good deeds on the night carry immense rewards. An entire chapter of the Quran is dedicated to Laylatul Qadr, giving us a good idea of its significance. According to the Quran:
“The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months.” (Al-Qadr, 5)
Zakat Maximizes Participation in Ramadan and Eid:
By giving Zakat, we ensure that the less fortunate among us keep their fasts, pray, and have time and resources for self-reflection. Similarly, it helps them prepare for the Eid celebrations, thus maximizing their participation in the festivities.
Use Your Zakat Calculator & Donate To Transparent Hands:
Transparent Hands provides free medical and surgical treatment to Pakistan’s most deserving people and communities. The organization reaches numerous people deprived of basic healthcare services. Ramadan is the best time of the year for you to seek rewards from Allah (SWT). Support needy patients in Pakistan with your Zakat during Ramadan. You can use an online Zakat calculator to know the exact amount of Zakat you need to pay.
Conclusion:
Zakat and fasting are fundamental requirements for Muslims. While fasting promotes self-reflection and patience, Zakat purifies our wealth. Many Muslims choose to pay their Zakat during Ramadan. Note that the Zakat Nisab 2025 value is PKR 179,689 in Pakistan. Ramadan helps us develop personal piety and communal harmony. By giving Zakat during Ramadan, we ensure that the blessings and rewards of this great month aren’t reserved for a few. While you strengthen your spiritual bond with Allah (SWT) this Ramadan, ensure your Zakat goes to the most deserving and eligible people. Donate to Transparent Hands.
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Learn about the importance of giving Zakat in Ramadan, and set your Ramadan Calendar to gain maximum spiritual benefits.