Understanding your Zakat Donation

Zakat, one of the five pillars of Islam, is a fundamental aspect of our faith and practice. It represents a form of obligatory charity, serving as a means of purification for one’s wealth and a demonstration of solidarity with those in need. Yet, the intricacies of Zakat can sometimes be complex, even among us Muslims as we aim to seek the maximum fulfilment of this important religious obligation.  

So, what is Zakat?  

Zakat is derived from the Arabic word meaning ‘to purify’ or ‘to grow.’ It is an obligatory form of charity ordained upon financially capable Muslims. Zakat requires us to donate a portion of our wealth to support various categories of beneficiaries outlined by Islamic jurisprudence. Although there are eight categories, Zakat nowadays tends to be given to the poor and needy wherever in the world they may be. The other instances in which Zakat can be given in accordance with Islamic law are to those who have reverted to Islam and found themselves in difficult circumstances, to free slaves, for the sake of Allah (SWT), to those who are in debt, to administrators of Zakat, and to rescue stranded travellers.  

Who can benefit from Zakat?  

Zakat is not merely an obligation which must be fulfilled, it is an act to be observed with true intention in one’s heart and it must be given to a ‘deserving recipient’. This can be done directly or through a charitable organisation like Penny Appeal. When you donate Zakat, your contribution serves as a lifeline for those facing financial hardship and adversity. Islamic law defines the process of giving Zakat as ‘to make a deserving recipient, who are stipulated in the Qur’an by Allah, the owner of a portion of one’s wealth’. This means that the only individuals who can benefit from Zakat are those who fit into one of the eight categories listed above. Zakat cannot be given to parents, grandparents, children, grandchildren, non-Muslims, members of the Banu Hashim tribe, a rich person, or a person who is not sane.  

What blessings can we receive by giving Zakat? 

In our faith, acts of charity like Zakat and Sadaqah Jariyah carry immense spiritual significance and rewards. By giving your Zakat, you not only fulfil your religious duty, but you also reap the rewards and blessings associated with giving. Many Muslims give their Zakat during the blessed month of Ramadan due to the heightened rewards which can be claimed throughout the period.  

How do I pay my Zakat with Penny Appeal? 

Here at Penny Appeal, we’re proud to be operating a 100% Zakat Promise for the 14th year running. This means that you can rest assured that 100% of your Zakat donation goes directly to those in need, 100% of the time. This also means that you can benefit from 100% of the rewards. Understanding your Zakat donation is paramount to fulfilling this sacred obligation with true sincerity and integrity. When you know and understand the principles and practices of Zakat, you empower yourself to make informed decisions and contribute to the welfare of others in the most meaningful way. May Allah (SWT) reward you for your deeds in this world and the Hereafter – Ameen! 

Click here to learn more about your Zakat payment and to pay your Zakat with Penny Appeal today.