Zakat

__Zakat__

Also known as “Arabic Zakat” is an obligatory tax, required by the Five Pillars of Islam, for Muslims. The zakat is decided by five categories of property—food grains, fruit, camels, cattle, sheep, goats, gold, silver; and movable goods—and is payable each year after one year's possession. The amount is decided by the category. Most recipients of these donations are the poor and lame. (http://www.britannica.com/eb/article-9078210/zakat accessed November 1, 2007)

The Zakat reminds muslims of their possessions are due to the Blessings of Allah and should be spent by his commands. It is an act of worship towards Allah, it acknowledges gratitude towards Allah, it is given to the poor so it allows them to live decently. It is given as soon as possible after it is due from the person, in which it can all be given to one person or split between man. It can not be given as a payment for services, only if the person is named by the gov. to collect the Zakat. The Zakat can be paid in which the form that is due, such as the ones given above, or in cold hard cash. __The reasons that Muslims give the Zakat__: Gains pleasure of Allah It protects the giver from the wrath of Allah and from a horrible death Give them a safe guard for the day from the Day of Judgement Protects them from any 70 misfortunes they might encounter (http://www.islam.tc/alhilaal/site/zakat.html accessed November)