ASARFeature, Depok – Muslims worldwide are taught to fulfill Zakat, a command directly given by Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala, as mentioned in several verses in the Quran.

For instance, in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 43: "And establish prayer and give zakat, and bow with those who bow." In Surah Al-A'la, verses 14-15: “Indeed, he who purifies himself (by paying zakat al-fitr), (15) and remembers the name of his Lord, and prays (on Eid al-Fitr).” In Surah Maryam, verse 55: "And he instructed his family to pray and give zakat, and he was one who was pleasing to his Lord," and other verses.

Zakat is not commanded without a clear purpose. The benefits of zakat include purifying wealth from all the negative aspects it may contain, bringing abundant rewards, opening doors to sustenance, cleansing the heart from greed, and narrowing the economic gap between the rich and the poor. Through zakat, the benefits of material wealth are distributed fairly to those who truly need it.

Zakat ensures that wealth does not circulate only among certain groups but also reaches the underprivileged in society. The recipients of zakat are determined by religious teachings and consist of eight categories of people in dire need, who receive financial aid to meet their basic needs. In this way, zakat functions as a social safety net, helping vulnerable groups lead more dignified lives.

Zakat also plays a role in creating harmonious relationships with the Creator and fellow human beings (habluminallah habluminannas). When a person gives zakat, they demonstrate piety and compassion for others, which strengthens the bonds within the community. This helps reduce feelings of envy and resentment that may arise due to economic disparities and creates a more harmonious environment. Zakat teaches empathy and care, ultimately reinforcing social ties within the community.

Moreover, zakat contributes to economic development and community empowerment. The 2.5% of wealth taken for zakat can be used to support programs in education, food, healthcare, or business capital for those in need, enabling them to escape the cycle of poverty and meet their basic needs. In this way, zakat not only serves as short-term aid but also as a long-term investment that helps reduce poverty and improve living standards.