ZAKÂT

Mawlana Ashraf Ali Thanvi

The person who has some wealth and still does not take out zakât for it is regarded as a great sinner in the sight of Allah Ta'ala. He will be severely punished on the day of judgement. 

Rasulullah sallallahu alayhi wa sallam said: "The person who possesses gold and silver and does not give zakât for it, then on the day of judgement, slabs of fire will be made for him. These slabs will be heated in the fire of Jahannam and his sides, forehead and back will be branded with them. When these slabs become cool, they will be re-heated and the entire process will be repeated." (Muslim) كلما ردت أعيدت له

Rasulullah sallallahu alayhi wa sallam said: "The person who has been given wealth by Allah Ta'ala and despite this does not give zakât for it, then on the day of judgement this wealth of his will be turned into a huge poisonous snake which will encircle his neck. It will then tear the sides of his mouth apart and tell him: 'I am your wealth and I am your treasures.' (Bukhari) أَنَا مَالُكَ أَنَا كَنْزُكَ 

We seek refuge in Allah Ta'ala. Who can bear such severe punishment? It is the height of foolishness and stupidity that we are prepared to pay such a great penalty for a little greed and selfishness on our part. It is extremely foolish and improper to refuse to spend in the path of Allah the wealth that Allah Himself has granted to us.

Etiquette in ‘Ibâdât

1. As far as possible, give zakât to those who do not go around begging - who remain in their homes out of self-respect and self-honour.

2. Do not be ashamed of giving very little in charity. Give whatever you are able to irrespective of the amount.

3. Do not think: "What is the need of giving zakât or charity?" Whenever the occasion arises, make a resolution and give in charity.

4. By giving charity to your relatives, you receive a double reward - one for giving in charity, and another for being kind and considerate toward your relatives.

5. Always bear in mind your poor neighbours.

6. Do not spend too much in charity from your husband's wealth to the extent that he is displeased.

Bahishti Zewar (Heavenly Ornaments)