Message of the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution to the Annual Zakat Conference

In the Name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful

The organization of the annual conference for the promotion of zakat (almsgiving) should be regarded as one of the greatest divine successes and a sign of God's grace and mercy towards the Islamic Republic. The high importance of this great obligation, which is repeatedly mentioned in the Quran alongside prayer, necessitated that it be established much earlier. We, the officials of the Islamic Republic system, must seek God's forgiveness for our negligence in this regard and turn to His mercy.

Now that, thanks to the efforts of some dear individuals, the issue of zakat has been pursued for several years, it is necessary for officials in all relevant governmental sectors to extend their comprehensive cooperation. The Quran praises the strivers on the path of truth, stating that their roles after victory include establishing prayer, giving zakat, enjoining good, and forbidding evil, thus determining their first and foremost duties at the time of establishing a government. This is the prominent status of zakat.

The Islamic Republic has been established to realize Islamic laws and form an Islamic community, so this great obligation must be placed at the forefront of its programs. We must admit that in this area, research and knowledge work have not been conducted at the level of need and necessity. The jurisprudential discussion of zakat today can open broader horizons than all that has been presented in the writings of the past. The obligation of zakat was legislated in the first year after the migration to Medina, while the term zakat has been repeated multiple times in the Meccan verses of the Holy Quran. There are many points of this nature that call us to deep contemplation on this important topic.

In any case, it is hoped that the movement to revive and promote zakat at all levels will lead to its deserving functions and that its endless blessings will encompass our people, our country, and the sacred Islamic Republic system.

I sincerely thank Mr. Qaraati and other contributors. Peace be upon you and God's mercy and blessings.

Sayyid Ali Khamenei December 8, 1396