The Philosophy of Zakāt — Page 28
THE PH ILOSOPHY OF ZAKAT 28 many evils and induces man to walk in the paths of virtue. He who does not bolster up his income through foul means also gives up this evil habit and saves his soul from such contamination as love of dirty lucre. He does not remain any more a prey to nigga rdliness and similar obnoxious habits. The Holy Quran says: ‘And whoso is rid of the covetousness of his own soul – it is these who will be successful. ’ ( 59:10 ) In other words, we could say that Zak ā t is the ‘healer’ of the disease of niggardliness. Love of riches is weakened and the spirit of brotherly sympathy is born. This is because he pays Zak ā t in obedience to the command of Allah. In return he is rewarded w ith the love of Allah which is the main source of all virtues; and he gains the object for which he was created - perfect submission to Allah. The Holy Quran says: ‘And the case of those who spend their wealth to seek the pleasure of Allah and to strengthen their souls is like the case of a garden on elevated ground. Heavy rain falls on it so that it brings forth its fruit twofold. And if heavy rain does not fall on it, then light rain suffices. And Allah sees what you do. ’ ( 2:266 ) The above verse explains the philosophy of Zak ā t. Those who spend to seek the pleasure of Allah they find a place to stand on a firm rock and their hearts are filled with God’s love and for this reason they become pure - hearted and righteous and they gain a dmission to a haven where Satan has no access.