Zakat and Sadaqat Foundation

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  • Heartfelt Appreciation for the Success of the “Back To School” Project

    Heartfelt Appreciation for the Success of the “Back To School” Project

    As-Salam Alaikum,

    Dear Friends and Supporters,

    We are overjoyed to extend our deepest gratitude to each and every one of you for your unwavering support and dedication to the “Back To School” Project initiated by the Zakat and Sadaqat Foundation. It is with immense pleasure that we share the remarkable success of this endeavor, which reached and positively impacted the lives of countless children across multiple states, including Lagos State, Ogun State, Oyo State, Kwara State, Ondo State, Edo State, and Delta State.

    Ikorodu District Lagos School: Methodist Primary School, Ikorodu

    Back To School Support Activities held at Osun State
    Zakat and Sadaqat Foundation
    21st September till 2nd October, 2023

    The “Back To School” Project was not just an event but a heartwarming testament to the power of collective goodwill and a shared commitment to providing a better future for our nation’s youth. Through your generous contributions and the tireless efforts of our dedicated team, we provided essential educational materials such as bags, books, biros, pencils, and a host of other supplies to children who needed them the most.

    Back To Project Held in Edo State, Nigeria
    By Zakat and Sadaqat Foundation

    Special Recognition of His Excellency, The Otaru of Auchi, in presentation of the back-to-school project to pupils at his palace, in Auchi, Edo State, Nigeria.

    The smiles on the faces of these young learners, their enthusiasm for learning, and the hope shining brightly in their eyes were a testament to the profound impact we collectively made. By equipping them with the tools they need to succeed academically, we have taken a significant step towards empowering the next generation of leaders and change-makers in our society.

    Back-to-School Support Project in Kwara State.

    Organized by Zakat and Sadaqat Foundation on the 23rd of September 2023 at Kwara State College of Education, Saw-mill, Ilorin.

    We also extend our heartfelt appreciation to our sponsors, whose generosity made this project possible. Your belief in our cause and your willingness to invest in the education and future of these children is nothing short of inspiring. It is through your support that we can continue to make a lasting difference in the lives of those less fortunate.

    Ogun State Educational Support Programme of Zakat and Sadaqat Foundation, Ijebu-Ode

    Last but not least, we would like to express our gratitude to the dedicated teachers who play a pivotal role in nurturing the intellectual and moral development of these children. Your dedication and commitment to their education are immeasurable, and we recognize and honor your invaluable contributions.

    Egba-Yewa, Ogun State, Back To School Project of Zakat and Sadaqat Foundation

    Oyo State
    Zakat and Sadaqat Foundation

    As we reflect on the success of the “Back To School” Project, let us also remember that our work is far from over. Together, we can continue to profoundly impact the lives of children in need and inspire hope for a brighter future.

    Thank you once again for your unwavering support and belief in the mission of the Zakat and Sadaqat Foundation. With your continued partnership, we look forward to achieving even greater milestones in the service of humanity.

    Sincerely,

    Zakat and Sadaqat Foundation

  • The Importance of Zakat in the Life of a Muslim

    The Importance of Zakat in the Life of a Muslim

    Introduction

    Zakat is one of the five pillars of Islam, and its significance in the life of a Muslim cannot be overstated. Derived from the Arabic root “zakaha” which means to purify, grow, and increase, Zakat serves as a means of purification for both wealth and the soul. Beyond its financial aspect, Zakat plays a vital role in fostering social justice, compassion, and community cohesion among Muslims. This article explores the importance of Zakat in the life of a Muslim from various perspectives.

    1. Spiritual and Moral Growth

    Zakat is more than just a financial obligation; it is a spiritual duty that encourages Muslims to detach themselves from worldly possessions and grow spiritually. By giving away a portion of their wealth, Muslims purify their hearts from the love of materialism and develop empathy for those less fortunate. This act of selflessness reinforces core Islamic values of compassion, humility, and gratitude.

      1. Economic Equity and Social Justice

      One of the primary purposes of Zakat is to bridge the economic gap in society. It serves as a mechanism to redistribute wealth from the affluent to the needy. This act of charity helps in mitigating poverty, reducing inequality, and ensuring that basic needs like food, shelter, and healthcare are accessible to everyone in the Muslim community. Through Zakat, Muslims collectively contribute to building a fair and just society.

      1. Solidarity and Community Building

      Zakat strengthens the sense of community among Muslims. It fosters a spirit of mutual responsibility and solidarity as those who have more wealth recognize their obligation to help those who are less fortunate. This act of giving creates a sense of unity, as Muslims come together to support each other in times of need. It reinforces the idea that the Muslim community is one large family, where the welfare of each member is of utmost importance.

      1. Compassion and Empathy

      Zakat is not just about giving money; it is about recognizing the suffering of others and responding with compassion. When Muslims pay their Zakat, they are reminded of the struggles faced by the less fortunate and are encouraged to empathize with their plight. This empathy extends beyond financial assistance, encouraging Muslims to actively engage in charitable activities, volunteerism, and acts of kindness.

      1. Accountability and Self-Reflection

      Zakat is a reminder of the individual’s accountability to God. Muslims are required to calculate and give away a specific portion of their accumulated wealth each year. This process encourages self-reflection, as individuals assess their financial status and contemplate their responsibility toward those in need. It keeps believers mindful of their duties to both God and their fellow human beings.

      1. The Favor of God

      In Islam, it is believed that giving Zakat results in the blessings and favor of God. Muslims who fulfill this obligation are promised spiritual rewards, increased sustenance, and protection from misfortune. This belief reinforces the importance of Zakat in the life of a Muslim, as it is seen as a means to earn God’s pleasure and secure blessings in this life and the hereafter.

      Conclusion

      Zakat is a fundamental pillar of Islam that embodies the values of compassion, social justice, and community cohesion. It serves as a powerful tool for economic equity and poverty alleviation, while also promoting spiritual growth and selflessness among Muslims. Through Zakat, Muslims reaffirm their commitment to the principles of Islam and their responsibility toward the less fortunate, ultimately striving to build a more just and compassionate society. In the life of a Muslim, Zakat is not merely a financial obligation; it is a transformative act that shapes their character and strengthens their connection to God and humanity.

    1. IN OYO, ZSF takes her free water facility to Ogunse community

      IN OYO, ZSF takes her free water facility to Ogunse community

      Zakat and Sadaqah Foundation, ZSF, as part of her community service strides, has taken her free water facility to the residents of Ogunse, Atingisi area of Oyo west local government of Oyo state.
      Free water facility is an initiative of the foundation which sees to the provision of water to deprived communities.
      Mr Qasim Durojaye, who is the state’s admin. officer in his brief speech reminiscenced on the history of the foundation, establishing the power of will and desire to fulfil religious obligation.
      He however said “the gift of water saves lives, which is a hugely rewardable action. Allah says in the Qur’an, ‘And whoever saves one [a life] – it is as if he had saved all of mankind’. (Qur’an, 5:32) Imagine this – every single time the clean water you donated saves someone’s life, it is as if you have saved all of mankind!”
      Mr Durojaye therefore harped on the necessity of unalloyed alacrity in the fulfilment of the third pillar of Islam, Zakah, and of providing potable water for humanity. According to him, this act is the best charity, a means of express forgiveness and a sure path to salvation.
      ” The Messenger of Allah (saw) was asked, “Which charity is best?” He replied, “[Providing] water”’. [Abu Dawud].
      We use water for everything, from washing dishes to cooking food to growing crops. Allah says in the Qur’an, ‘By means of water, we give life to everything’. (Qur’an, 21:30) .
      Communities who don’t have access to clean water face unimaginable hardships, with women and children walking for hours to collect even a little water, and families unable to support themselves due to lack of education and livelihood. Having access to safe water is a basic human right and fulfilling this right is an excellent Sadaqah.”
      In his address, the foundation’s Operations Manager, Alhaji Ma’aruf Ahmed established that “not all of us are able to build wells/boreholes for entire communities – but don’t worry, that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the rewards!. Your token, if well-coordinated and harnessed can ‘shame the rich’ and drill boreholes for communities around this town”.
      On his part, Alhaji Ahmad Arowosaye, who commissioned the borehole lauded the temerity of the Zakat and Sadaqah Foundation and her strides to reach out to people, adding that if the wealthy understand the celestial profit of giving out zakat, the world would have been a haven for all and sundry.
      Alhaji Arowosaye however promised to work in synergy with the foundation henceforth, having understood the relevance and significance of their objectives and core values.
      Meanwhile, Alhaji Tajudeen Balogun, the chairman of the host community in his appreciation thanked the facilitator, the donor and the foundation for making them one of the beneficiaries of free water facility.
      He expressed his heart-felt joy for, ” the era of scampering for water is over, by God’s grace”.
      Residents of the area, majorly women were ecstatic as they would bid farewell to “annoying-dawn-queue before getting water for their house chores. They also promised to take good care of the facility.