It is the social responsibility of every muslim who is able to donate to charity. The word “zakat” means “purification” as well as “growth”. Giving alms is done under the belief that everything belongs to God and that all wealth is held by humans in trust. Zakat is seen as part of one’s service to God. An individual’s possessions are purified when they set aside a proportion of their earnings for those in need and for the society in general. Traditional zakat is levied on five categories of property, food grains, fruit, livestock such as camels, cattle, sheep, and goats, gold and silver, and movable goods. Today alms are usually given in the form of monetary donations. The amount of one’s donations is equal to 2.5% of their total net worth each year, excluding obligations and family expenses. Some can give more than the required donation and preferably does so secretly. The charity goes to benefit the entire community, especially the neediest …show more content…
A muslim will make the hajj during the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah to the holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia. Over 2 million muslims visit Mecca each year. Muslims from all over the world make the pilgrimage. Every able-bodied Muslim is encouraged to make the journey to Mecca at least once in their life. Making the hajj is the most significant act of faith and unity that a muslim can express. It is the peak of one’s religious experiences. Pilgrims journey to Mecca not as as show of economic standing, but to express their deep devotion to Allah. In Mecca muslims will go to the holy Ka’bah shrine. People will walk around the Ka’bah seven times, and walk seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwa The worshipers will later stand together on the wide plains of Arafat and pray together for forgiveness from God. Pilgrims must dress in Ihram clothing, which consists of two white sheets. Wearing these simple garments strips away any distinctions of class or statue, so that all the pilgrims are equal before God. The pilgrims follows the order of ritual that the Prophet Muhammad performed during his last pilgrimage. It is possible to have someone go in your place if you are unable to make the pilgrimage. The proxy is allowed to stand in for them during the ceremonies. After a person makes the pilgrimage to Mecca, they will is known as either a hajj (males) or hajja (females). Before making the pilgrimage the devotee