Social justice and wealth distribution: the role of zakat

Zakat is a pillar of Islam. It is a required act of devotion and obligatory form of charity among Muslims. Every year, rich Muslims are obliged to give a certain percentage (usually 2.5%) of their excess wealth to needy individuals. It is not merely a religious ceremony; it is a way of distributing wealth within society. By transferring money to the poor, zakat attempts to create social effect by fair distribution of resources. In short, zakat makes sure the poor are helped by the wealthy, a step towards social justice on the most fundamental level. Zakat's Role in Social Justice Social justice in Islam means equality in society – in which the basic needs of everyone are met and money does not end up in the hands of a couple of people. Zakat is a powerful tool to achieve this justice. It takes away from the riches of the rich and gives to the poor, thereby establishing an equitable distribution. Therefore, zakat is not just personal charity, but a tool for building a just society. Zakat is not a mere ritual; rather, he considered it to be an actual measure for the formation of a fair and balanced society. Zakat consolidates the solidarity of society, i.e., it unites people and stimulates them to care for each other. By providing assistance from the rich to the poor, the perception of injustice and disparity in society decreases among its members.