(59/7)” In some circles there is a feeling that the quantum...

(59/7)” In some circles there is a feeling that the quantum of zakat prescribed is so meager that it is neither sufficient to bridge the economic gap between the rich and the poor, nor the numbers of the poor and needy could be brought down with this amount. The best reply for this thinking has been given by Imam Ja`far al-Sadiq (a.s), “Allah has affixed the share of the poor in the assets of the rich that is sufficient to meet their needs.

If Allah had thought that it would not suffice for the poor, He would have enhanced the quantum.” In fact, if Allah wanted He could have apportioned an equal share for the poor in the wealth of the affluent or even more! But the Divine Wisdom is that He leaves more for the affluent because it is the product of their hard work and toil. If the poor have a share in it, the rich too owns the wealth as a matter of right!

The truth is that the quantum of zakat is not less because it is fixed in such a manner that the rich do not make excuses to avoid it which, they might have done, if the quantum was fixed higher. If the zakat is paid honestly and regularly by all, there is no doubt that the poor will rise above their economic problems and there will be general well being. zakat is a religious obligation and therefore people should have the spirit of intent, nearness to Allah and sense of fulfillment of duty.

They should not think that they are delivering any favor to the recipients but must know that it is the right of the society that had been endowed by Allah. Therefore, the Holy Qur’an says: وَفِي أَمْوَالِهِمْ حَقٌّ لِلسَّائِلِ وَالْمَحْرُومِ. “And in their property was a portion due to him who begs and to him who is denied (good). (51/19)” was raised by the representatives and spent on predetermined heads.

Amir al-Mu’minin (a.s) who was the wali `Amr after the Prophet (a.s) started the department of zakat during his regime. This department took special care to observe the steps that the Prophet (a.s) used to take in the matter of the zakat . Therefore, such persons were appointed to this task that was known for their piety and honesty. The Imam (a.s) used to exhort them not to use coercive tactics in demanding for the payment of the zakat .

If someone voluntarily declared the quantity of the zakat applicable to him, that was collected. When some people said that the zakat was not applicable to them, no questions were asked.

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