Zakat - An Essential Pillar of Islam
Zakat, also known as “charity” or “alms-giving,” is a mandatory act of giving in Islam. The term “zakat” means “to purify,” reflecting the spiritual purpose of purifying one’s wealth by giving a portion to those in need.
“…and those in whose wealth there is a recognised right, for the needy and deprived.” (Qur’an 70:24-5)
Zakat is mandatory for Muslims and is not just voluntary charity. It can also be given as a donation to ensure it reaches those in need.
Conditions of Zakat
For Zakat to be valid, three conditions must be met:
- The person giving Zakat must be a Muslim.
- The wealth must meet the Nisab threshold.
- The wealth must be held for a full lunar year.
When is Zakat Mandatory?
- Nisab threshold: 85 grams of gold or 595 grams of silver.
- For cash and other wealth, Nisab is determined by the current market value.
- Zakat rate: 2.5% of qualifying wealth.
Eligible Recipients of Zakat
There are 8 categories of recipients (Ash-Shabaab Al-Arham):
- The poor
- The needy
- Those working to collect Zakat
- Those whose hearts need reconciliation
- Those in slavery
- Those in debt
- Travelers in the cause of Allah
- Those in the way of Allah
Zakat can be given at any time but is commonly due during Ramadan.
Benefits of Giving Zakat
Giving Zakat has spiritual, social, and personal benefits:
- Purifies wealth and protects from miserliness.
- Brings society together by reducing wealth inequality.
- Supports the needy, promoting social harmony and equality.
- Protects from hellfire for those who give with faith.
Zakat Criteria and Considerations
Mandatory for: Muslim adults of sound mind with Nisab-level wealth.
Minors: May be obligated if they have trust funds or inheritance.
Forms of wealth: Salary, savings, property, gold, silver, cash, and stocks.
- Determine total Zakatable wealth (gold, silver, cash, stocks, property).
- Deduct living expenses from total wealth to find the Zakatable amount.
- If above Nisab, donate 2.5% of the Zakatable wealth.