In our society, we often perceive household workers as needy individuals, offering them our zakat (charitable donations) with good intentions. Yet, many of these workers may have savings exceeding 70,000 takas, receiving zakat when, in fact, they should be the ones giving. This disconnect arises from our ignorance about who truly needs assistance and the purpose of zakat.
Consider the silent struggles of our neighbors—those who cannot voice their hardships. These are the individuals we often overlook when thinking about zakat distribution. Our attention often drifts to the visible cases of poverty, forgetting that many who suffer silently may need our help the most.
In the bustling streets of Dhaka, we encounter many beggars, some of whom are blind or physically disabled. Surprisingly, their monthly earnings can reach 25,000 to 30,000 takas, and many have savings totaling 2 to 4 lakh takas. Some even engage in lending at interest, yet we continuously offer them zakat, unaware that they have more than enough to provide for themselves.
This practice not only misallocates our zakat but can also undermine the sanctity of this sacred act. Zakat is an act of worship, a means of purifying our wealth and supporting those genuinely in need. Therefore, it is crucial to understand whom we are giving our zakat to, ensuring that our charity aligns with its intended purpose.
At SNAD Foundation, we recognize the pressing need to address this issue thoughtfully. We are committed to empowering the impoverished in rural areas by providing them with goats as part of a government initiative, “A House, A Farm.” Our goal is to enable these families to create sustainable livelihoods over the next two to three years, enhancing their income and independence.
InshaAllah, with faith and action, we can bring about meaningful change. Let us strive to be more discerning in our zakat distribution, ensuring that our generosity uplifts those who truly need it. Together, we can make a lasting impact in our communities, fostering dignity and self-reliance for all.
