A Simple Guide to ISLAM
Zakat – Almsgiving
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The Qur'an disapproves of people who make a show of
their alms-giving. (2:271)
Zakat
is a test of the sincerity and unselfishness of the believer. For
there is no authority to force any Muslim to pay it. It is entirely up
to the conscience of the individual whether or not he or she pays
it. The willingness to pay, shows that one’s heart is clean of the
love of money. It shows that one is prepared to use one’s money
for the service of humanity.
The Prophet of Islam was always very concerned for the poor and
the needy. He went to the extent of saying:
He is not a believer who eats his fill while his neighbour remains
hungry by his side. (Muslim).
