ZAKAT AND FIGHTING POVERTY. THE SOCIAL MODEL FROM THE PROPHET'S LIFE

Abstract

Zakat, one of the Five Pillars of Islam, serves not merely as a religious obligation but as a transformative socio-economic tool for poverty alleviation. Rooted deeply in the teachings and practices of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), Zakat is designed to redistribute wealth, ensuring social justice and economic equity. This paper explores the role of Zakat in combating poverty through the lens of the Prophet’s life, highlighting how he institutionalized this practice to build a cohesive and inclusive society. The early Islamic community in Madinah presents a unique social model where Zakat was implemented not only as a personal duty but as a systematic policy under state governance. The Prophet established a comprehensive mechanism for the collection, management, and distribution of Zakat to address economic disparities and social welfare.

This paper examines the categories of Zakat recipients as outlined in the Qur’an and how the Prophet practically applied these guidelines to empower the marginalized, including the poor, the indebted, and travelers in distress. Through his exemplary leadership, Prophet Muhammad emphasized transparency, fairness, and accountability in Zakat administration. His model presents significant insights into the principles of Islamic economic justice and social solidarity.

Modern Muslim societies face growing economic inequality and systemic poverty, making it imperative to revisit the prophetic model of Zakat. This paper aims to draw parallels between early Islamic strategies and contemporary approaches to poverty reduction, suggesting that a revived, institutionalized practice of Zakat can effectively contribute to economic empowerment and social justice. Through a historical and analytical lens, this research underscores the enduring relevance of the Prophet’s approach to Zakat as a foundational strategy in the fight against poverty.