By Humanity Increased
Attachments are a natural part of human life. These connections can be either halal (permissible) or haram (forbidden). For instance, loving one’s family is halal, but if this attachment becomes so strong that it eclipses our devotion to Allah, it can turn into an “ilaah” (an object of worship) in our hearts. This shift leads to anxiety and stress because it disrupts the core principle of Tawheed (the oneness of Allah).
Money is a common source of attachment. While it is a blessing from Allah meant to facilitate our lives, an obsession with wealth can cause spiritual harm. Islam provides a comprehensive system to manage and purify these attachments through its five pillars, with Zakat playing a pivotal role in cleansing both our hearts and our wealth.
The Concept of Zakat and Tazkiyah
Zakat, one of the five pillars of Islam, is an annual obligation for Muslims to donate a portion of their wealth to those in need. The term “Zakat” is derived from the Arabic root “zaka,” which means to purify or cleanse. Thus, Zakat is not merely a charitable act but a means of spiritual purification. By giving Zakat, we purify our wealth and soul, freeing ourselves from the excessive attachment to material possessions.
Tazkiyah, on the other hand, refers to the broader concept of purification in Islam, including the purification of the heart. Allah emphasizes the importance of tazkiyah in the Quran: “He has succeeded who purifies [his soul]. And he has failed who instills it [with corruption]” (Quran 91:9-10).
The Impact of Zakat on Spiritual Well-being
Zakat helps break our attachment to wealth by reminding us that all we possess is a trust from Allah. This act of giving reinforces the belief that true security and sustenance come from Allah alone, not from our amassed wealth.
In addition to purifying our wealth, Zakat nurtures a sense of community and responsibility. It ensures that the wealth circulates within the community, reaching those who are less fortunate. The Quran outlines the categories of people eligible for Zakat, which include the poor, the needy, those burdened by debt, and others.
The Connection Between Zakat and Tazkiyah
The relationship between Zakat and tazkiyah is profound. Both share the same root letters in Arabic, signifying their interconnected nature. Zakat is a practical application of tazkiyah, focusing on the purification of wealth, while tazkiyah encompasses the overall purification of the heart and soul.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of charity in softening the heart. He said, “If you want to soften your heart, feed the poor and caress the head of the orphan” (Hadith). This act of giving not only helps the recipient but also purifies the giver’s heart from greed and attachment.
Zakat: A Remedy for Materialism
Islam teaches us that wealth should not be hoarded but used in a manner that benefits the community and earns Allah’s pleasure. The Prophet (peace be upon him) demonstrated unparalleled generosity, giving freely without fear of poverty. He taught us that charity does not diminish wealth but rather increases it through the blessings of Allah.
In essence, Zakat serves as a remedy for the spiritual ailment of materialism. It encourages Muslims to detach from their worldly possessions and focus on their spiritual growth and the well-being of others.
The True Essence of Righteousness
True righteousness, as highlighted in the Quran, is achieved by giving from what we love: “You will never attain righteousness until you spend in the way of Allah from that which you love. And whatever you spend – indeed, Allah is Knowing of it” (Quran 3:92).
This verse teaches us that giving should come from the best of what we have, not from what is left over. It is a test of our sincerity and devotion to Allah.
May Allah help us to purify our hearts and wealth through the act of Zakat, and may He grant us the strength to break free from unhealthy attachments, placing Him at the center of our lives.