Green Bridge Learning Resource For Zakat (charity)

Overview

Zakat, one of the Five Pillars of Islam, holds significant importance in the lives of Muslims as it serves as a means of purifying wealth and sharing resources with those in need. Understanding the concept of Zakat is crucial for every believer, as it reflects a core aspect of their faith and fosters socio-economic welfare within the community. This course material will delve into the detailed study of Zakat, focusing on its spiritual, socio-economic, and moral objectives in the Islamic context.

To begin with, it is essential to grasp the meaning and significance of Zakat from both a religious and practical perspective. Zakat, derived from the Arabic word meaning "purification" or "growth," is not merely a form of charity but a compulsory act of worship prescribed by Allah to cleanse one's wealth and maintain social justice. By fulfilling the obligation of Zakat, Muslims demonstrate their obedience to Allah and their commitment to caring for the less fortunate members of society.

Furthermore, the course material will aim to clarify the distinction between Zakat and Sadaqah, two forms of financial assistance in Islam. While Zakat is obligatory and follows specific guidelines regarding the types of wealth subject to payment, Sadaqah is voluntary and can be given at any time, serving as a gesture of goodwill and generosity. Understanding the differences between the two is paramount for practicing Muslims to fulfill their religious duties effectively.

Delving deeper into the topic, the course material will explore the articles on which Zakat is paid, including livestock, money, and agricultural products. Calculating the Nisab of Zakat, which refers to the minimum threshold of wealth that makes an individual eligible for Zakat payment, is crucial for adherents to assess their financial obligations accurately. By comprehending the various types of Zakat and the specific criteria for each category, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the practical aspects of fulfilling this pillar of Islam.

In line with the Quranic teachings, the course material will also shed light on the beneficiaries of Zakat as outlined in Surah At-Tawbah (Q.9:60). Ensuring that Zakat reaches those who are deserving, such as the poor, the needy, those in debt, and travelers in need of assistance, is essential for fulfilling the socio-economic objectives of this pillar. By studying the Quranic directives on Zakat distribution, students will appreciate the inherent social justice principles embedded in this pillar of Islam.

Finally, the course material will underscore the numerous benefits of Zakat in spiritual, socio-economic, and moral dimensions. By fulfilling the obligation of Zakat, believers not only purify their wealth but also experience spiritual growth through acts of generosity and compassion towards others. Moreover, Zakat plays a pivotal role in addressing poverty, fostering community cohesion, and upholding ethical values within the Muslim Ummah. Understanding the multifaceted benefits of Zakat is essential for Muslims to appreciate its profound impact on individuals and society at large.

Objectives

Identify the articles on which Zakat is paid
Calculate the Nisab of Zakat
Learn the difference between Zakat and Sadaqah
Understand the meaning and significance of Zakat
Understand the beneficiaries of Zakat as mentioned in the Quran
Appreciate the benefits of Zakat in spiritual, socio-economic, and moral aspects
Recognize various types of Zakat, such as Zakat on livestock, money, and agricultural products

Lesson Note

In Islamic tradition, Zakat is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, and it represents a form of almsgiving treated as a religious obligation or tax. Both the Quran and Hadith emphasize the importance of Zakat as a means to purify wealth, support the less fortunate, and foster a sense of community.

Lesson Evaluation

Congratulations on completing the lesson on Zakat (charity). Now that youve explored the key concepts and ideas, its time to put your knowledge to the test. This section offers a variety of practice questions designed to reinforce your understanding and help you gauge your grasp of the material.

You will encounter a mix of question types, including multiple-choice questions, short answer questions, and essay questions. Each question is thoughtfully crafted to assess different aspects of your knowledge and critical thinking skills.

Use this evaluation section as an opportunity to reinforce your understanding of the topic and to identify any areas where you may need additional study. Don't be discouraged by any challenges you encounter; instead, view them as opportunities for growth and improvement.

What is the definition of Zakat in Islam? A. Fasting during the month of Ramadan B. Charity given to the poor and needy C. Performing pilgrimage to Mecca D. Reciting Islamic prayers daily Answer: Charity given to the poor and needy
Which of the following is NOT a difference between Zakat and Sadaqah? A. Zakat is obligatory while Sadaqah is voluntary B. Zakat is fixed at 2.5% of wealth, while Sadaqah has no specific percentage C. Zakat can only be given to relatives, while Sadaqah can be given to anyone D. Zakat can be given to specific categories of people, while Sadaqah has no restrictions Answer: Zakat can only be given to relatives, while Sadaqah can be given to anyone
According to Islamic teachings, on which of the following can Zakat be paid? A. Vehicles B. Jewelry for personal use C. Property for personal use D. Savings above a certain threshold (Nisab) Answer: Savings above a certain threshold (Nisab)
What is the Nisab of Zakat for gold and silver in Islamic practice? A. 1 gram of gold or 10 grams of silver B. 7.5 grams of gold or 52.5 grams of silver C. 85 grams of gold or 595 grams of silver D. 500 grams of gold or 1 kilogram of silver Answer: 85 grams of gold or 595 grams of silver
In Islamic teachings, what is Zakat on livestock called? A. Zakat-ul-Mal B. Zakat-ul-Fitr C. Zakat-ul-‘Ishah D. Zakat-ul-An’am Answer: Zakat-ul-An’am

Recommended Books

	Fiqh al-Zakah Subtitle The Theory and Practice of Zakat Publisher Darussalam Publishers Year 2010 ISBN 978-6035000288
	Islamic Law of Zakat Subtitle Traditional Taxation in the Currency of Islam Publisher Kegan Paul International Year 1999 ISBN 978-0710306215

Past Questions

Wondering what past questions for this topic looks like? Here are a number of questions about Zakat (charity) from previous years

JAMB UTME - Islamic Religious Studies - 2023 (Click to take full assessment)

Question 1 Report

Which of the following prayers is not observed between Isha and Fajr?

Tahajjud

Shafi

Witr

Istisqa

View Answer

WAEC SSCE - Islamic Studies - 2021 (Click to take full assessment)

Question 1 Report

Write an essay on the pillars of islam

Answer

Answer Details

The pillars of Islam are the five basic acts of worship that form the foundation of Muslim life. They are the declaration of faith (Shahada), prayer (Salah), giving to charity (Zakat), fasting during the month of Ramadan (Sawm), and pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca (Hajj).

The first pillar is the declaration of faith (Shahada), which is the affirmation of the belief in one God and the acceptance of Muhammad as his prophet. This declaration is the cornerstone of Islam and is recited by Muslims daily.

The second pillar is prayer (Salah), which is performed five times a day at specific times. The prayer is a way for Muslims to show their devotion to Allah and to seek his guidance and forgiveness. It involves specific movements and recitation of prayers in Arabic.

The third pillar is giving to charity (Zakat), which is the obligation of Muslims to donate a portion of their wealth to those in need. This act of charity helps to alleviate poverty and establish a sense of community among Muslims.

The fourth pillar is fasting during the month of Ramadan (Sawm), which involves abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs from dawn to dusk. This act of self-discipline and devotion is a way for Muslims to purify their souls and show their gratitude to Allah.

The fifth pillar is pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca (Hajj), which is required of all able-bodied and financially capable Muslims at least once in their lifetime. During this pilgrimage, Muslims perform a series of rituals to commemorate the life of Prophet Abraham and demonstrate their unity and devotion to Allah.

In conclusion, the pillars of Islam are the foundation of Muslim life, providing a framework for spiritual and moral growth. They emphasize the importance of faith, prayer, charity, self-discipline, and community, and serve as a reminder of the ultimate purpose of life – to worship Allah and seek His pleasure.

View Answer