Zakah: The Financial Pillar of Islam

Zakah is more than a financial obligation, it is a foundational pillar of Islam that shapes the relationship between faith, wealth, and social responsibility.

In this practical and reflective seminar, Dr. Osman Umarji explores what Zakah truly represents in Islam, why it holds such a central place in the faith, and how it functions as both a spiritual act of worship and a legal system of redistribution. The session addresses common questions surrounding money and Islam, clarifying misconceptions while grounding the discussion in Qur’anic principles and Islamic law.

Designed as a practical guide, this seminar walks participants through both the spirit and objectives of Zakah as well as the technical aspects of calculating and paying it correctly. Attendees will gain clarity on how Zakah purifies wealth, nurtures ethical consciousness, and strengthens communal bonds, especially during the blessed month of Ramadan.

This session will cover:

• Why Zakah is a pillar of Islam
• The spiritual meaning and objectives of Zakah
• The relationship between wealth, responsibility, and faith
• How to calculate Zakah accurately
• Common mistakes and practical considerations in paying Zakah

About the Speaker

Dr. Osman Umarji is the Director of Global Data Studies at Yaqeen Institute for Islamic Research and a Senior Consultant to Qatar Foundation. He holds a degree in Electrical Engineering, as well as a Master’s and PhD in Educational Psychology from the University of California, Irvine, and has studied Islamic Law at Al-Azhar University. His research focuses on understanding how religious beliefs and behaviors develop within Muslim communities.