The religion of Islam was founded on five pillars that all Muslims are required to follow in their lives. One of these pillars is Zakat (an Arabic word that can mean purification, growth, and blessings), which remains largely unknown by non-Muslims, despite the huge social benefits it enables.

Zakat al-Mal (Zakat on wealth) is a type of Zakat that focuses on monetary assets like savings, commodities, or property. It is a form of charity often discussed in the Quran and preached by the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon Him). Basically, Muslim men and women who are financially stable must pay a certain amount from their savings every year to people who need it.

Zakat al-Mal Aims to reduce social inequalities and strengthen the sense of community in a given society by redistributing wealth among the poor and also helping to reduce the weight of debt. It also grants personal rewards on the person paying Zakat al-Mal, like stronger faith, a kinder heart, and absolution from sins.

Sadly, in today’s world, the rift between the rich and the poor has grown larger than ever, which in turn intensifies social conflicts. Feeling abandoned by society, the youth are more likely to engage in acts of vandalism and other crimes. Islam teaches every Muslim that helping others is an act of worship they must perform whenever they can.

At Trust in Humanity, we want Islam to be a source of harmony instead of social tension. We strive to help everyone, regardless of their race, gender, or beliefs. As such, we believe that promoting Zakat al-Mal will help improve the situation of many UK citizens, Muslims and non-Muslims alike, as well as spread a better understanding of Islam. If you are a Muslim and you want to pay Zakat al-Mal to help people in need click here. If you are not sure how to calculate the amount you should pay, click here for our Zakat guidance page.