| Zakat - Charity |
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During Ramadan Muslims are expected to be charitable. This is known as Zakat. The word Zakat means to purify or cleanse. It is not a charity, but it is a duty performed by muslims on a regular basis. It should be paid during the month of Ramadan, once a year. To a Muslim, the word 'Zakat' implies "Any good deed that is done, is purely for the sake of Allah (God), and not out of any selfish hope for getting reward for it." It is a payment that makes the rest of one's wealth religiously and legally pure. It is a contribution paid once a year on savings at the rate of 2.5%. The money is paid for all the Muslims all over the world, who find great difficulty in attaining the most basic requirements and needs of life. Eid Ul-Fitr is the last day for sending Zakat in the month of Ramadan. Zakah is the third pillar of Islam, it is a duty for all those Muslims able and obliged (by financial situation) to pay. 2.5% of one's wealth each year to given to benefit the poor. The 2.5% rate only applies to cash, gold and silver, and commercial items. There are other rates for farm and mining produce, and for animals. Written by Shanaz (London) |
