Merits of Zakaah

The person who has some wealth and still does not take out Zakaah for it is regarded as a great sinner in the sight of Allah. He will be severely punished on the day of judgement. Rasulullah sallallahu alayhi wa sallam said: “The person who possesses gold and silver and does not give Zakaah for it, then on the day of judgement, slabs of fire will be made for him. These slabs will be heated in the fire of jahannam and his sides, forehead and back will be branded with them. When these slabs become cool, they will be re-heated and the entire process will be repeated.” Rasulullah sallallahu alayhi wa sallam said: “The person who has been given wealth by Allah and despite this does not give Zakaah for it, then on the day of judgement this wealth of his will be turned into a huge poisonous snake which will encircle his neck. It will then tear the sides of his mouth apart and tell him: ‘I am your wealth and I am your treasures.'” We seek refuge in Allah. Who can bear such severe punishment? It is the height of foolishness and stupidity that we are prepared to pay such a great penalty for a little greed and selfishness on our part. It is extremely foolish and improper to refuse to spend in the path of Allah the wealth that Allah Himself has granted to us.