Hadith.1580 - Imam Ali ibn Musa Ar-Ridha (as) wrote to Muhammad ibn Sinan in response to his questions: "The reason for the obligation of Zakat is to provide sustenance for the poor and to protect the wealth of the rich. Allah (swt), the Almighty and Majestic, has tasked the healthy with caring for those who are afflicted and tested, as Allah (swt), Blessed and Exalted, says: 'You will surely be tested in your wealth and your souls' (Surah Ali ’Imran 3:186). In your wealth, it refers to the giving of Zakat, and in your souls, it refers to preparing yourselves for patience. This also serves as an expression of gratitude for Allah’s (swt) blessings, an aspiration for an increase in provision, and a means of fostering compassion and mercy for the weak, sympathy for the impoverished, and encouragement for mutual assistance and solidarity. It strengthens the poor and aids them in their religious duties. It also serves as a reminder and a lesson for the wealthy to reflect on the poor of the Hereafter through the poor of this world. It inspires them to thank Allah (swt), Blessed and Exalted, for what He has bestowed upon them, and to make supplications, humble themselves, and fear becoming like the impoverished in many matters. These include fulfilling Zakat, giving in charity, maintaining ties of kinship, and performing acts of kindness."