Instructions:
-
Watch the video carefully and take clear, organized notes while watching.
-
Review the concepts covered in the video and then attempt all the given exercises independently.
-
If you feel stuck on any question, go back to your notes and re-watch the relevant part of the video before moving on.
-
Do not skip difficult questions—use your notes to understand the method or concept step by step.
-
Write down any questions or confusions in your notebook so you can ask the lecturer during the next class.
Good morning students. Today, we are going to learn about one of the most important pillars of Islam — Zakah. Zakah is the third pillar of Islam, and it means purification and growth. It’s not just about giving money to the poor; it’s about purifying our wealth and our hearts from greed and selfishness. When we give Zakah, our wealth becomes cleaner and more blessed, and at the same time, we help others who are struggling. Allah wants us to care for one another, and Zakah makes that possible.
In the Qur’an, Allah says, “Establish prayer and give Zakah.” This shows that just like Salah (prayer) connects us to Allah, Zakah connects us to people around us. It reminds us that true faith isn’t only about praying or fasting but also about helping others and building a caring society. For example, if someone has a lot of savings or business profit, they must give a small portion—usually 2.5%—to those who need it. That small amount can make a big difference in someone’s life.
Now, let’s talk about why Zakah is so important. Spiritually, it teaches us humility and gratitude. When we give, we realize that everything we have is from Allah, and sharing it only increases our blessings. Socially, it helps to reduce poverty and builds unity in the community. Imagine if every wealthy person gave Zakah properly — there would be hardly anyone left hungry or without shelter. That’s how powerful this system is!
There are also conditions for paying Zakah. First, the person must be a Muslim. Second, their wealth must reach a certain amount called the nisab — that’s about the value of 87.5 grams of gold or 612 grams of silver. Third, they must have owned that wealth for at least one full Islamic year. And finally, the wealth must belong completely to them. So, not everyone is required to give Zakah — only those who meet these conditions.
Zakah can be given on different types of wealth — such as cash, gold, silver, business goods, livestock, and crops. The idea is that no matter what kind of wealth you have, it should contribute to the well-being of the community. Now, who receives Zakah? The Qur’an clearly lists eight groups of people — the poor, the needy, those who collect Zakah, those whose hearts are to be encouraged towards Islam, those in debt, captives, travelers in difficulty, and those struggling in the cause of Allah. These categories make sure Zakah reaches people who truly need help.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Islam is built upon five pillars,” and one of them is Zakah. He also warned that those who refuse to pay Zakah will face serious consequences in the Hereafter. So, it’s not just an act of kindness; it’s an obligation that every Muslim must fulfill when eligible.
Zakah also brings social justice. It creates a fair balance between the rich and the poor, ensuring that no one is left behind. Unlike normal charity, Zakah is a duty — the poor actually have a right to a portion of the wealth of the rich. The Prophet (peace be upon him) also said that beyond Zakah, Muslims should still be generous and give sadaqah voluntarily whenever they can.
In today’s world, if Zakah was properly collected and distributed, it could solve major problems like poverty, hunger, and lack of education. Many Muslim organizations now use Zakah funds to build schools, hospitals, and shelters. So even today, it remains one of the most effective and compassionate economic systems in the world.
To wrap up, remember this: Zakah purifies, blesses, and unites. It purifies our wealth, brings blessings to our lives, and unites us as one caring Ummah. When we give Zakah, we are not losing anything — we are gaining Allah’s pleasure and helping humanity. So, always think of Zakah as an act of love, obedience, and justice in Islam.
