Alms-giving (zakat) is an act of worship which benefits the community of Muslims. Write in detail about its benefits to the giver, the receiver and to society as a whole.

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (May/June 2017). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

1. [10] A straightforward descriptive response is needed here stating the benefits of zakat to the giver, the receiver and to society as a whole. It could be said that zakat purifies the heart of the giver of love of wealth and greed and strengthens the giver's bonds with God as they give from their wealth to earn God's pleasure and mercy. The giver is also fulfilling one of the Pillars of Islam. Zakat it could also be said is a blessing to the giver as by this act their wealth is multiplied. Quotes from the Qur'an can be given in support, 'The parable of those who spend their substance in the way of Allah is that of a grain of corn, it grows seven ears and each ear has a hundred grains.' (Al Baqarah 2:261) Moreover, candidates could say that zakat expiates the sins of a person. The benefits of zakat for the receiver and for society as a whole are also several, it is not only a blessing for the receiver but helps them to meet their needs, it fosters good will and brotherhood in the hearts of the poor and promotes equality. By the distribution of wealth in the society through zakat wealth is not accumulated in a few hands, the poor don't get poorer and the rich don't get richer and a just balance is maintained. Zakat stimulates investment and discourages hoarding in the community, if people do not invest, their wealth will be gradually consumed by zakat, therefore zakat has benefits for all. Candidates could also say that as the community thrives and prospers, crime is reduced. These and other benefits can be given in response to this question. We are looking for a comprehensive answer that covers the benefits of zakat to the giver, receiver and to society.
2. [4] Candidates need to give their views here. They could say that had Abu Bakr not fought those who refused to pay zakat then perhaps one of the Pillars of Islam would have been abolished which would have meant the corruption of the faith. It was to maintain the integrity of Islam that this action had to be taken. Some candidates could also say that as collection of zakat was a state responsibility he may have felt that as caliph it was his duty to collect zakat from all Muslims in his caliphate. Evaluative responses are being looked for and candidates should for this answer give their opinion and back it up.