With the sunset over Gaza’s war-torn streets, the faces of the people bear a heavy load of sorrow and hopelessness. What was once a vibrant and lively seaside community has now become a frightening image of human suffering, where 1 million people are on the verge of starvation and 2.2 million are severely malnourished. This is an unprecedented crisis, a humanitarian disaster that needs our prompt attention and measures.
In the midst of this harsh reality, the duty of fulfilling our religious obligation of Zakat has never been more demanding. The Quran reminds us, “Those who give charity, night and day, in private and in public, will receive their reward from their Lord; they have nothing to fear, nor will they grieve” (Quran 2:274). It is with this spirit of benevolence and steadfast belief that we should respond to the call of our brothers and sisters in Gaza.
Muslim Aid, a faith-based British international charity, has been on the ground since October 7th, delivering lifesaving aid to the people of Gaza. From giving cash grants to widows and orphans, delivering bread to those in need, and making sure that clean water and shelter are available, their activities have been a source of hope in the midst of this growing crisis.
The magnitude of the crisis in Gaza cannot be underestimated. Out of 1.5 million refugees seeking shelter in a 25-square-mile area of Rafah, the sheer density of human struggle is unbearable. Surrounded by a continuous state of fear and anguish, the people of Gaza witness constant air strikes, loved ones’ loss, and the trauma of six months of merciless violence.
Consequently, the aid blockades have seriously diminished the delivery of vital supplies, from food and water to medicine and sanitation. This situation leads to the rapid propagation of the disease, and children are dying from starvation in front of their powerless parents. The prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Do not show laziness or negligence in giving alms and charity until your last breath” (Bukhari). It is this call to action that we must answer.
Your Zakat could be a lifeline for the people of Gaza. A donation of £100 could be used to purchase 1,000 loaves of bread to feed the homeless. An amount of £365 can be a lifesaver for a family, giving them a cash survival grant and enabling them to meet their day-to-day necessities. For £500, you could pay for a “truck of life,” bringing 1,000 meals to those who are starving. For just £1,000, you can ensure the survival of the most vulnerable members of our community by providing a pallet of baby formula.
However, Zakat is not simply charity but a sacred duty we have to those who live in the most heartbreaking and devastating conditions and situations imaginable. It is indisputable evidence of our belief, the source of the happiness of the downtrodden, and the last resort for the hope they so desperately need.
The hugeness of this crisis might make us feel small and helpless. But as we have been called upon to make a change, we have no other option than to stand up for it. However, with the aid of group effort, we can achieve a measurable impact. Together, we can prevent deaths in Gaza and provide the hungry with something to eat, and, in this way, we can bring some hope to those who have experienced unbelievable suffering.
The time is now for us to act. Every moment matters and the people of Gaza are in a very difficult situation, so our support is required. Let us, then, respond to the dictates of our faith, open our souls, and contribute abundantly to the Zakat for Gaza fund. Similarly, we can be the light on the way that can make the darkness disappear if we stand together with the people of Gaza, who know they are not alone in their struggle. Donate to Muslim Aid
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