Charity is a cornerstone of Islam, shaping the spiritual compass of every believer while uplifting society as a whole. In Calgary, where Muslims from diverse backgrounds strive to strengthen their faith and community bonds, Zakah and Sadaqah play a vital role. At Bilal Islamic Assembly of Calgary, these principles are more than religious obligations — they are part of our lived mission to support and empower those in need. Understanding the Difference: Zakah vs. Sadaqah What is Zakah? Zakah is one of the Five Pillars of Islam — a mandatory form of charity required from those who meet the financial threshold (Nisab). It purifies wealth by redistributing a portion (typically 2.5% of eligible savings) to people in need. The Qur’ān emphasizes its importance: “And establish prayer and give Zakah…”— Qur’ān 2:110 Zakah ensures economic balance in society by uplifting vulnerable members and reducing inequality. What is Sadaqah? Sadaqah is voluntary charity given at any time, in any amount. It may take many forms — financial support, kind actions, a smile, or sharing knowledge. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: “Every act of goodness is charity.”— Sahih Muslim Unlike Zakah, which is obligatory and calculated, Sadaqah has no limitations. It is an ongoing opportunity for spiritual growth and compassion. Why Zakah & Sadaqah Matter 1. Spiritual Benefits 2. Social Responsibility Helping the less fortunate fosters unity. When community members support each other, social barriers diminish, creating a stronger, more compassionate society. 3. Economic Balance Zakah prevents extreme wealth disparity by redistributing wealth to those who need it most, helping families access food, healthcare, education, and basic necessities. Who Receives Zakah? The Qur’ān outlines eight categories of eligible recipients (Qur’ān 9:60): Supporting eligible recipients ensures that funds are distributed with integrity and equity. How Bilal Calgary Implements Zakah & Sadaqah Bilal Islamic Assembly of Calgary facilitates the giving of Zakah and Sadaqah through organized community outreach, ensuring help reaches those who need it most. 1. Community Support Services Bilal Calgary provides direct financial assistance to families and individuals in need. This may include support for: Through responsible distribution, the dignity of recipients is preserved. 2. Transparent Collection & Distribution Funds are collected from community members and channeled into local support programs. Care is taken to ensure that: This transparency builds trust between the institution and the community. 3. Programs for Youth & Families Sadaqah helps sustain learning initiatives like Qur’ān classes, weekend school programs, and youth activities. When families donate, they directly support the spiritual development of their children and peers. 4. Community-Based Outreach Your contributions support outreach efforts, including meal programs, visits to the sick, and initiatives to help newcomers settle into Calgary. These acts exemplify compassion and unity. Local Impact: Why Giving Matters in Calgary Calgary’s Muslim community is diverse, including immigrants, students, new families, and seniors. Many face challenges like: Through Zakah and Sadaqah, the local community helps fill these gaps, offering dignity, stability, and hope. No act of charity is too small — even a little can change someone’s life. How You Can Participate ✅ Give Your Zakah Calculate your annual Zakah (most commonly 2.5% of surplus savings). If you need help, Bilal Calgary can guide you. ✅ Donate Sadaqah Regularly Make voluntary charity a consistent habit, even small amounts. ✅ Support Programs Your contributions sustain learning, youth development, and community outreach. ✅ Volunteer Give your time, skills, or energy — these, too, are forms of Sadaqah! Spiritual Reflection: Charity as a Path to Jannah The Prophet ﷺ taught that charity does not decrease wealth; instead, it multiplies blessings. Giving is an expression of gratitude to Allah and acknowledgment that all wealth ultimately belongs to Him. Zakah purifies what we possess, and Sadaqah helps us grow spiritually while caring for humanity. “The believer’s shade on the Day of Resurrection will be his charity.”— Tirmidhi Conclusion Zakah and Sadaqah are more than financial transactions — they are acts of love, compassion, and devotion. They remind us that our faith calls us to care for one another and to uplift our communities. At Bilal Calgary, these principles guide our work and allow us to support families, students, and individuals across the city. Together, through generosity and unity, we can build a strong, empowered Muslim community. Give Today — Build Tomorrow Support Bilal Islamic Assembly of Calgary in its mission to serve the community. 🌐 Website: https://bilalcalgary.org 🤲 Donate your Zakah & Sadaqah May Allah accept your charity, purify your wealth, and increase you in blessings.Ameen. Just tell me!
