Unit 2.1
Fasting and zakat: Winning through sacrifice
It is normal for Muslim youth to question the purpose of religious rituals, especially those that involve sacrifice. This unit takes a multi-dimensional approach—physical, social, and spiritual—to understanding two core Islamic rituals: zakat and fasting in Ramadan. Students may wonder: Why do we give zakat, and how does it purify wealth? Is fasting just about avoiding food, or does it have a deeper purpose? In this unit, we examine how zakat and fasting foster spiritual purification, strengthen community bonds, and cultivate self-discipline in our lives. By the end of this unit, students will gain a greater appreciation for zakat and fasting, shifting their perspective on the role of rituals in daily life. Ultimately, they will recognize that Islamic rituals benefit us in both this life and the next.
Introduction
How to use Yaqeen Curriculum
Unit overview and learning objectives
Unit at a glance
Lesson 1
Sacred surrender
Through introspection and comparative analysis, students will realize that rituals of sacrifice speak to what is deified or deemed sacred in a society. By the end of this lesson, students will recognize that sacrifice in Islam is a vehicle to show love and gratitude to God, leading to benefits in this life and in the hereafter.
Lesson plan
Slides
Worksheets
Lesson 2
Fasting of the mind, body, and soul
In this lesson, students will focus on the ritual of fasting as an expression of love and devotion toward God. Students will acknowledge that while Islamic rituals such as fasting are done for God, it is ultimately we, as individuals and communities, who benefit.
Lesson plan
Slides
Worksheets
Lesson 3
Zakat: More than just charity
This lesson gives students the conceptual framework to understand and appreciate the Islamic ritual of zakat. Students will participate in the act of giving zakat to recognize its utility in producing a collective community. The experiential learning in this lesson will conclude the unit with the understanding that the Islamic worldview of sacrifice is a mindset that results in inner purity and a fruitful life.
Lesson plan
Slides
Worksheets
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