Ramadan is the holy month in the Islamic calendar when Muslims around the world fast from before dawn to dusk. It is a time of spiritual reflection, prayer, and giving to those in need.
One of the most important obligations carried out by many Muslims in Ramadan is the practice of Zakat, which is the act of giving to the poor and needy.
What is Zakat?
Zakat is one of the five pillars of Islam and is the act of giving a portion of one’s wealth to those in need. It is mandatory for every Muslim who is financially able to pay Zakat. The amount that is required to be given is 2.5% of one’s total savings for a year.
The purpose of Zakat is to purify one’s wealth and to help those in need. It is also a means of showing gratitude to Allah for the blessings he has bestowed upon us.
Zakat in Ramadan
Ramadan is a special time for Zakat. During this month, Muslims are encouraged to give more generously to those in need. Many Muslims choose to pay their Zakat during Ramadan, as it is considered a time of greater blessings and rewards.
In addition to the mandatory Zakat, Muslims are also encouraged to give voluntary donations during Ramadan. These donations are known as Sadaqah and are given out of the goodness of one’s heart. Sadaqah can be given in any amount, and there are no specific rules or requirements for it.
Zakat al-Fitr
Zakat al-Fitr is a special form of Zakat that is given at the end of Ramadan. It is a small amount of money or food that is given to the poor and needy to ensure that they can celebrate Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan, with joy and happiness.
Zakat al-Fitr is obligatory for every Muslim, regardless of their financial situation. The amount that is required to be given is equivalent to the cost of one meal, which is estimated to be around $10 in most countries.
How to give Zakat?
There are many ways to give Zakat during Ramadan. Some people choose to donate to local charities or organizations that support those in need. Others prefer to give directly to individuals or families who are struggling.
One of the easiest ways to give Zakat is to donate online. There are many reputable organizations that accept donations online and use the money to support those in need. Donating online is fast, convenient, and secure, and it allows you to support a cause that you believe in.
Hadiths relating to Zakat
Three authentic Hadiths (sayings of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ) that relate to the subject of Zakat in Ramadan.
- Narrated Ibn `Abbas: The Prophet ﷺ was the most generous of all the people, and he used to become more generous in Ramadan when Gabriel met him. Gabriel used to meet him every night of Ramadan to teach him the Quran. Allah’s Messenger ﷺ was the most generous person, even more generous than the strong, uncontrollable wind (in readiness and haste to do charitable deeds). (Sahih Bukhari)
This Hadith highlights the importance of generosity during Ramadan, and how the Prophet ﷺ was particularly generous during this blessed month.
- Abu Hurairah narrated that the Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: “Whoever gives food for a fasting person to break his fast, then for him is the same reward as his (the fasting person’s), without anything being diminished from the reward of the fasting person.” (Jami` at-Tirmidhi)
This Hadith emphasizes the importance of providing iftar (the meal that breaks the fast) to those who are fasting, and the great reward that comes with it.
- Abu Darda reported: The Prophet ﷺ said, “Sadaqah extinguishes sin as water extinguishes fire.” (Sunan Ibn Majah)
This Hadith highlights the cleansing effect of giving charity, including Zakat, and how it can help to wipe away one’s sins and earn Allah’s forgiveness.
These Hadiths show the importance of Zakat and generosity during Ramadan, and how they are both powerful means of earning rewards and gaining Allah’s pleasure.
Conclusion
Zakat is an important part of Ramadan, and it is an opportunity for Muslims to give back to their communities and to help those in need. By giving Zakat, we can purify our wealth and show gratitude to Allah for his blessings. Let us make the most of this holy month and give generously to those who are less fortunate.
