The Power of Zakat: Zakat could end global poverty
This Ramadan, we want to impress upon everyone the importance of Zakat.
“…and those in whose wealth there is a recognised right, for the needy and deprived”
(Qur’an 70:24-5)
Zakat, a fundamental pillar of Islam, is a religious obligation for all Muslims who meet the criteria to help those less fortunate and more vulnerable. Zakat is a form of almsgiving and is a mandatory charitable contribution of 2.5% of a Muslim’s savings and wealth, distributed to those in need. The power of zakat lies in its ability to provide financial assistance to those who are less fortunate and promotes social justice and equality within the Muslim community. In addition, giving zakat purifies one’s wealth and develops spiritual growth. It is also a means of redistributing wealth and reducing economic inequality.
According to the UN, the amount needed to achieve the first two Sustainable Development Goals – to end extreme poverty and hunger globally – is approximately $300 billion. Islamic Relief is working towards ending global hunger by dedicating its resources to uplift, educate and empower underprivileged people and communities, locally and abroad. We can only achieve this with your support.
Allah has shown us the way – all we need to do is follow. That is the power of Zakat.
This Ramadan we want to impress upon everyone the importance of Zakat. Zakat could have the power to end global poverty – this is the power of Zakat.
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was sent to bring Islam to the entire world. So if we imagine that everyone around the globe gave 2.5% of their wealth to those in need, the annual amount would be trillions of dollars. Imagine what could be done with that!
Yes – Zakat could have the power to end poverty. If everyone around the world gave 2.5% of their wealth as Zakat we could end poverty together, SubhanAllah!
Of course, ending poverty isn’t simple. Conflict, inequality, water shortages, climate change, lack of education, poor public infrastructure and basic human greed all create and shape poverty.
Allah has shown us the way – all we need to do is follow. That is the power of Zakat.