How and why was Zakaat made obligatory?

 How and why was Zakaat made obligatory?                                                                                                                                      

Answer From the very outset of Islam, Muslims were motivated and urged to help one another to all possible extent and spend their surplus on destitute, orphans, widows and other needy people to alleviate their sufferings. 

The believers followed the sublime teachings of Islam, the glorious religion, and left no stone unturned to help indigent and destitute despite the fact there were still no set rules to that effect as an institution.

After migration from holy Makkah to holy Madinah, the believers heaved a sigh of relief and gradually settled there. A series of Muslim conquests ensued in which lands and properties of the enemies were captured that helped improve and consolidate the economic position of the believers.

 They set up their own business which also enhanced their income. Given the conducive circumstances, the rules and regulations of Zakaat were gradually framed and after conquest of holy Makkah the process was complete. Thus the institution of Zakaat was established.