What is Zakat?
- Zakat is an essential concept in Islam, referring to the mandatory act of almsgiving or charity. The term comes from the Arabic root "زَكَى" (zakā), which means "to purify" or "to grow."
- In Islamic theology, Zakat signifies both the purification of wealth and the spiritual growth of the giver, emphasizing its dual role in material and moral development.
- As one of the Five Pillars of Islam, Zakat holds immense theological significance, being a core obligation for all eligible Muslims. It is considered a form of worship and obedience to Allah, as prescribed in the Qur’an and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Fulfilling Zakat demonstrates a Muslim’s commitment to social justice and compassion for the less fortunate.
- Historically, Zakat has been interpreted by Islamic scholars as a systematic means to redistribute wealth within the Muslim community. The practice is strictly regulated, with specific rules regarding eligibility, calculation, and distribution. Classical jurists developed detailed guidelines to ensure that Zakat reaches designated recipients, such as the poor, the needy, and other specified groups.
- On a spiritual level, Zakat serves as a means of self-purification and moral discipline. By giving a portion of their wealth, Muslims are reminded to detach from materialism and cultivate empathy, humility, and gratitude. The act of paying Zakat fosters a sense of solidarity and responsibility toward the wider community, reinforcing Islamic ethical values.
- In contemporary practice, Zakat remains highly relevant, with Muslims worldwide calculating and distributing it annually, typically at a rate of 2.5% of qualifying assets. Modern organizations and institutions often facilitate the collection and allocation of Zakat, ensuring its effective use in alleviating poverty, supporting education, and funding social welfare projects in accordance with Islamic principles.
Examples of Zakat
Helping the Poor: "Every year, Muslims are encouraged to give Zakat to support those in need within their community."
Following the Sunnah: "Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasized the importance of Zakat as one of the pillars of Islam."
Business Earnings: "A business owner calculates 2.5% of his savings and pays Zakat on his annual profits."
Agricultural Produce: "Farmers are required to give a portion of their crops as Zakat after the harvest season."
References in Qur'an & Hadith
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: "Islam is based on (the following) five (principles): To testify that none has the right to be worshipped but Allah and Muhammad is Allah's Messenger, to offer the prayers dutifully and perfectly, to pay Zakat, to perform Hajj (i.e. pilgrimage to Mecca), and to observe fast during the month of Ramadan."
Sahih Bukhari 8 (Sunnah.com)
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: "Whoever is made wealthy by Allah and does not pay the Zakat of his wealth, then on the Day of Resurrection his wealth will be made like a bald-headed poisonous male snake with two black spots over the eyes. The snake will encircle his neck and bite his cheeks and say, 'I am your wealth, I am your treasure.'"
Sahih Bukhari 1403 (Sunnah.com)
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: "Allah has made it obligatory for them to pay the Zakat from their properties, and it is to be taken from the wealthy among them and given to the poor among them."
Sahih Bukhari 1395 (Sunnah.com)
FAQs for Zakat
What does Zakat mean in English?
Zakat means purification or almsgiving in English, referring to the mandatory charitable giving in Islam.
When should Muslims give Zakat?
Muslims should give Zakat once every lunar year when their wealth reaches or exceeds the minimum threshold known as nisab.
Who is eligible to receive Zakat?
Zakat can be given to specific categories of people mentioned in the Quran, including the poor, the needy, those in debt, travelers in need, and others as outlined in Islamic teachings.
Is Zakat obligatory for all Muslims?
Zakat is obligatory for every adult Muslim who possesses wealth above the nisab threshold for one lunar year, as taught by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
What is the difference between Zakat and Sadaqah?
What is the difference between Zakat and Sadaqah? Zakat is a compulsory form of charity with specific rules and recipients, while Sadaqah is voluntary charity that can be given at any time and in any amount.
