Some Facts Related To Zakat

By Author: Salvatore Andrea
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There is a popular concept in Islam that all the wealth one has accumulated in the lifetime is that of the Allah’s. One is only the guardian of this wealth. Hence, the theory of zakat came into existence. It says that one must donate a fixed percentage of income as charity. It is generally given to the poor and needy. The history of such donations is not a new concept in Muslim society and can be traced back to the days of the great prophet Muhammad. He instituted it as a voluntary contribution during his lifetime.

One must not compare it with any form of taxes. It is a religious duty and one can expect all practicing Muslims who have the financial means to pay this money. This money is not collected from non Muslims. However, at times they may asked to cough up donations in the form of jizyah. It is a tax, which at times is levied on Non Muslims. However, the Quran has not laid down any specific guidelines regarding the type of wealth that can be donated under this system. This form of voluntary contribution is also referred to as zakah. ...
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The collection of this tax is mainly through a decentralized system. Under this system committees are established all over the place. The main activity of these committees is to collect and then distribute Zakat funds. Is this donation mandatory? Yes it is, but only in a handful of countries such as Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. The collections are handled by the state in a centralized manner. However, in most countries such as Jordan, Bangladesh, Bahrain this form of collections are regulated by the state but is voluntary. Hence, as a practicing Muslim it is important one donates a portion of the excess wealth to the poor and needy.