Final answer:
Zakat, one of the five pillars of Islam, refers to the mandatory charitable giving to the poor and needy. It is calculated as 2.5% of surplus wealth and savings, fulfilling both a social and religious duty for Muslims.
Step-by-step explanation:
The one of the five pillars of Islam that refers specifically to giving to the poor and needy is called Zakat, which means alms or charitable giving. Zakat is a form of obligatory charity that has the potential to alleviate the suffering of the less fortunate. All Muslims are required to donate a certain proportion of their wealth to charity, typically calculated as 2.5% of their savings and surplus wealth, to help provide for those in need within their community.
Zakat is not just an act of kindness; it is also seen as a form of worship and self-purification. By giving to the needy, Muslims cleanse their wealth and souls, fulfill a duty to help others, and participate in maintaining the balance of social justice as prescribed by Islam.