While Ramzan is a month of fasting, it also brings about a spirit of giving. It is a time when the Muslim community busies itself in calculating zakaat, a form of charity, to the poor. Ahead of this Ramzan, faith leaders suggested that zakaat be paid to relatives who have been grappling with severe financial difficulties.
Zakaat is often described as a form of “purification of wealth”. It is calculated as 2.5% of one’s annual savings that is given to the poor. Zakaat is also calculated on jewellery based on certain criteria. A large number of Muslims prefer to give zakaat in the holy month, which is likely to begin from April 2, depending on the sighting of the new moon.
Khateeb of the Shahi Masjid in the Public Gardens Maulana Ahsan al Hamoomi told The Hindu that a more concerted effort is required for zakaat collection and its disbursal. He encouraged Muslims to help one’s own lesser privileged relatives first. “Instead of giving zakaat ad hoc, and in small amounts, it would be better if families pool in their zakaat funds and give it to poorer relatives. Many families have such people who are in need. They should not be ignored,” he said.
While it is possible that a lesser number of people may stand to gain from this approach, the funds would be used purposefully and would be helpful in the long run. “It is very much possible to help such relatives by setting up small businesses, paying for education. On the surface, it may appear that fewer people are beneficiaries, but this help is more substantial, more meaningful. It will help in the long run,” he said.
Take for instance, Saleema Ahmed, a homemaker. This year she intends to give zakaat to those in her extended family. “It makes more sense to help those who are around us, our own relatives who we see more often. This, of course, does not mean that others should not be helped. But this is what the family has decided,” she said.
