The Effects of Zakah on Society

Question:
The questioner, Ibrahim, says: We would like you to tell us, O Shaykh, about the effects of zakah on society?

Answer:
Zakah is a matter of great importance, and its benefit is immense. In the community, there is mutual support among Muslims for one another. Zakah is a form of support; the rich person supports the poor person, assists him, and gives him from his wealth what helps him meet his needs. Therefore, zakah has a great status in the community. Through it, the poor person is supported, debts are paid off, and hearts are reconciled. It contains many benefits; for this reason, Allah prescribed it for the poor and the needy, those who work on it, those whose hearts are to be reconciled, for freeing captives, such as slaves, and for those in debt—those who owe debts—so that their debts are paid off if they are unable to do so. It is also for the cause of Allah in jihad, and for the traveler who passes through a town and has nothing in his possession to give. These are its great benefits in the community. Yes.

The presenter: May Allah reward you with good.