Article Op-Ed

Zakat Opportunities in Atlanta Area

Zakat Opportunities in Atlanta Area


Author Iman Naim by

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Image Credit: Varghese Kallada

Atlanta Muslims are known for their generosity when donating to international causes. But even in our community, there are Muslim brothers and sisters in need of our help. With Eid-ul-Fitr quickly approaching, masajid are reminding their communities about Zakat duties. As one of the five pillars of Islam, Zakat is an obligation on Muslims who can give while still having enough money left over for themselves and their families.

Besides being an act of worship, giving Zakat is beneficial because it reminds us that our wealth is a blessing from Allah and we should spend it as He directed us to. Giving Zakat to Muslims in your own community is also economically beneficial because it redistributes the wealth. Hadith say that by giving Zakat, one pleases Allah, increases their wealth and protection, receives Allah's forgiveness and blessing, will be protected from Allah's wrath, will have shelter on the Day of Judgement, and will have security from misfortunes.

To determine if one is responsible for paying Zakat, they must add up the wealth of specific belongings. If the wealth adds up to or past a certain amount (called Nisaab), Zakat is due at a 2.5% rate. The belongings for which Zakat is accountable for are:
* gold and silver
* cash, stocks, bonds, bank notes
* merchandise for a business
* livestock
* income from rental businesses

For a deeper look at zakat, visit IslamiCity or Islamic Relief

Some Atlanta masajid and organizations like the Roswell Community Masjid, Al-Farooq Masjid, Masjid Al Hedaya, Baitul Salaam and SHARE Atlanta use the Zakat they collect to cater to local Muslims in need.

If you would like to refer your organization as one that donates Zakat to local Muslims, please leave a link along with your comment. A full list of local donors will be provided.

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