One of the major programs of SAWAB is charity through Zakat. Zakat is an obligatory act ordained by Allah to be performed by every solvent adult Muslim. It is an important pillar among the five pillars of Islam. Zakat is a part of the wealth and property that Muslims must pay annually to the poor of their community. Zakat is not considered a favour that is given to the poor by the rich; rather it is the right of the poor on the wealth of the rich. Zakat helps rotate the wealth in the society in the right way.
SAWAB has been working hard for the past 25 years to remove poverty and create a sustainable nation by providing support in the remote areas of Bangladesh through Zakat funds. Zakat received from the individuals/organizations are solely utilized towards the development and welfare of the poor peoples, as per the choice of the Zakat payers.
Generally the fund is being utilized for the following purposes:
- Education support
- Livelihood program
- Orphan support
- Ramadan food project
- Disability support
- Health care support
Importance of Zakat
Zakat is one of the five pillars of Islam, which makes it compulsory for every Muslim who meets the necessary criteria of wealth to pay their Zakat. Zakat does not refer to any form of charity which might be given out of the kindness of generosity. However, it is a way to give 2.5% of your wealth to benefit the poor. It is regarded as one of the highest acts of worship.
Zakat is given a high significance in Islam. It is mentioned more than 30 times in the Holy Quran next to the second most important pillar of Islam, Prayer. By forming an intention and calculating our Zakat, we accept that part of our wealth belongs to the needy and poor.
Most Important Benefits of Zakat
Although Zakat has numerous benefits, we will be discussing the major concepts behind the importance of Zakat.
- Zakat means to purify
The term Zakat itself means ‘to purify.’ As mentioned in the Holy Quran: “Take from their wealth so that you might purify and sanctify them” [9:103]. Zakat is considered a way to purify one from selfishness and greed. By paying Zakat, we free ourselves from the love of money. When we give our Zakat to the ones in need, we contribute towards building a just and equitable society.
- Cash flows in the right direction
Zakat is the right way to circulate the flow of money in the economy. A specific portion of the rich’s wealth is taken and given to the poor. This way, the money does not get accumulated with the wealthy, and the poor receive their share. It helps in reducing poverty from society. Through this systematic way, the whole economy runs smoothly.
- Sacrifices in the way of Allah
This is one of the most important messages of Zakat. Muslims are taught the significance of sacrifice for Allah’s will. It is a way of showing that Muslims love Allah more than their money.
- Acknowledging that Allah owns everything
Paying Zakat gives us the realization that everything we do and earn in this world belongs to Allah. We do not own anything ourselves. It brings us closer to Allah and increases our faith. This leads to humility and humbleness within Muslims.
- Paying Zakat results in great rewards
Allah (SWT) rewards the person when he gives Zakat. The Prophet (SAW) said:
“Whoever gives away charity the size of a date, which is earned lawfully, since Allah only accepts the good lawful things, Allah will indeed take it with His right hand and cause it to grow for its owner, just as one of you raises his colt, to the point that the charity will become like the size of a mountain.” [Al-Bukhari]
By paying Zakat, society as a whole benefit. Zakat brings peace and harmony in society and teaches the message of sacrifice. But most importantly, Zakat/Charity will save people from the intense heat on the Day of Resurrection. The Prophet (SAW) said: “Every man will be in the shade of his charity on the Day of Resurrection.” [Ahmad]
At Seed Out, your Zakat reaches the right people at the right time. We help you calculate Zakat and channel it to the neediest and vulnerable people in the community.
