Salam All,
Hope you are all fine...i came across...Brother Joseph's article...and found these lines from his final thoughts..
If the state is an Islamic state, then the payment of Zakat will be to that particular state. The rate will be appropriately levied by those in governance given their circumstances. If one abides in another land, then a duty of responsibility and obligation is due to that particular community and state as responsible citizens.
Today Zakat is collected through a decentralised voluntary system. Many Muslim theologians attempt to expand the definition of whom and how the Zakat should be paid concentrating on primarily the Muslim communities. There is no indication that Zakat is only payable to Muslims. Rather Zakat is payable to all those who are in need in a given society.
According to above thoughts...is zakat charity or tax to be paid to the government?...m confused..can you guys please clear it
Regards,
Anjum