A Deep Dive into Zakat’s Impact on Empowering the Muslim Community
By Ali Jafri
Feb 26, 2024
Many developing nations of the world are struggling with an alarming increase in poverty. Unfortunately, Pakistan is one of them. Due to the hike in the inflation rate, many families in our country hardly meet their bread and butter.
When Ramadan is around the corner, these underprivileged families look forward to assistance and support. It is that time of the year when their Muslim brothers and sisters support them generously. Known as Zakat, this system of helping the poor in Ramadan has positive social and economic implications.
Let’s shed some light on the pivotal role of Zakat in the Muslim society:
Understanding Zakat:
Zakat is an obligation on Muslims. It is one of the five pillars of Islam. Not once, but several times in the Quran and Sunnah, Zakat has been emphasized. Islam is a religion of peace and justice. With this institution of Zakat, Islam teaches how wealth can be decentralized rather than being only in a few hands.
Who Pays Zakat?:
Muslims pay Zakat if they have wealth equal to or greater than a certain value. It is called Nisab. The nisab for 2024 in Pakistan is around Rs. 13,7000. It means you are liable to pay Zakat if you have wealth in any form that meets this criteria.
Calculation of Zakat
To know the amount of Zakat to be paid, you should know the total value of your assets. The Zakat amount is 2.5% of the total wealth you have. Also, note that this wealth can be in any form, but the assets in use are not included. For instance, cash in the form of savings, gold/silver/diamond, or property that is not in use will be included in the Zakat calculation.
From here, you can observe how Zakat is calculated. The percentage of Zakat is based on savings rather than monthly income. Instead of putting the savings in your hands, Allah asks you to invest some of its part in helping the poor. In this way, Allah gives you more prosperity and growth. Allah says:
‘’That which you give in Zakat seeking Allah’s countenance, has increase manifold.’’ (30:39)
Contribution of Zakat to Societal Well-Being
The Zakat system benefits society as a whole. If every Muslim pays Zakat as per the regulations of Islam, eradicating poverty will not be difficult. Not only is this, but it will also help control criminal activities. It is due to the financial challenges that give rise to crimes and beggary.
Here is how Zakat contributes for the betterment of the society:
● Fulfills the basic needs
● Reduces inequalities
● Discourages beggary
● Supports healthcare and education
● Promotes unity and brotherhood
How Can Zakat Help the Underserved Communities?
Zakat yields endless benefits. This act of charity can support millions of poor households. People living in villages are deprived of the basic necessities of life. Zakat donations can spread smiles to their faces, giving them hope and courage.
In 2023, Shine Humanity’s Ramadan Ration Drive distributed grocery bags in rural communities. You can also take such proactive measures for those in need. This way, everyone can experience the joy and dignity of the holy month of Ramadan.
Moreover, the underserved communities face many other challenges. Let us see how Zakat can help combat them:
Zakat can Feed the Malnourished Children
Alarmingly, 2.14 million children in Pakistan are suffering from malnutrition. These children are the future of our nation. Lack of nutrients weakens their immune system, making them prone to multiple diseases.
Zakat can help these malnourished children. Proper nutrients can help them grow better and enhance their learning capabilities. Shine Humanity took an initiative in 2012 at Gharo. We prescribed Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) after a detailed checkup. But not just in Gharo, children in many other parts of Pakistan need your support and help.
Zakat can Provide Healthcare Facilities to The Underprivileged
Many diseases like hepatitis, diabetes, asthma, malaria, etc., are prevailing in Pakistan. People in the villages are either not diagnosed or do not have the resources for treatment.
Zakat donation can help them provide diagnostic testing facilities. It can also support setting up healthcare clinics and arranging medications. For healthcare, Shine Humanity started a Hepatitis Eradication Program in 2021. Our malaria program, which was started in 2017, is still in practice. We also took initiatives for the diagnosis of asthma, diabetes, hypertension, and mental health diseases.
Zakat can Assist Educational Initiatives in Rural Pakistan
Illiteracy is another problem in Pakistan. Due to poverty, children from many families are unable to attend school. Other problems like poor curriculum, teacher absenteeism, lack of resources, and gender disparity also exist.
Though some schools exist in villages, resources are inadequate. Lack of basic amenities like chairs, fans, and school supplies is the biggest concern.
Your Zakat money can help arrange resources for the education of poor Muslim children.
Donate to Shine Humanity: Step Forward to Support Those in Need
When you trust Shine Humanity, we ensure that your Zakat reaches the right hands. We take this responsibility very seriously and follow a comprehensive Zakat policy. We also hold certification from Al-Hamd Shariah Compliance Services. According to it, paying Zakat to Shine Humanity is shariah approved.
In the past, your valuable donations have supported many of our projects. Thousands of Muslim brothers, sisters, and children have found relief from our campaigns.
Your support is always essential. Together, we can transform many lives. Be it medical care or education, food relief, or clean water, every step towards a positive cause helps humanity.
Let’s save lives!