What is Zakat in Islam?

Zakat is an Arabic term that means purification or growth. In Islam, it refers to the act of giving a portion of one's wealth to those in need. It is considered a mandatory duty for eligible Muslims who possess a certain level of wealth.

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Zakat is a crucial pillar of Islam. In this blog post, we will explore the concept of Zakat, its rules, calculation methods, and its significance during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr.

Take from their wealth O Prophet charity to purify and bless them, and pray for them—surely your prayer is a source of comfort for them. And Allah is All-Hearing, All-Knowing. Quran, Surah At-Tawbah 9:103.

A reminder that this is not a fatwa, and you should consult your local scholars for any questions you may have. Understanding Zakat requires a deep understanding of Islamic jurisprudence, and this blog post is not a substitute for that.

Rather, this blog post is intended to provide a high-level overview of Zakat and its significance in Islam so that you can begin your journey of learning and practicing this important pillar of Islam.

What are the Rules for Zakat?

To fulfill the obligation of Zakat, there are specific criteria that must be met. The basic rules include:

Being a Muslim of sound mind and maturity.

Possessing wealth that meets or exceeds the Nisab (minimum threshold).

Owning the wealth for a lunar year (Hawl).

The wealth should be surplus after meeting personal and family expenses.

How is Zakat Calculated?

Zakat is generally calculated as 2.5% of a person's eligible wealth. Eligible assets for Zakat include cash, gold, silver, business inventory, investments, and agricultural produce.

Each type of asset is evaluated based on its value and Zakat is calculated accordingly.

The minimum threshold for Zakat is known as Nisab. It is the minimum amount of wealth that a person must possess to be eligible for Zakat. The Nisab is calculated based on the current market value of gold or silver.

Some scholars also consider alternative measures, such as the value of other commodities or local currencies, to determine the Nisab in specific contexts or regions.

Calculating and tracking one's wealth to ensure it surpasses the Nisab threshold is an important step in fulfilling the obligation of Zakat. It indicates that an individual has reached a level of financial stability and is in a position to share a portion of their wealth with those in need, as mandated by Islamic teachings.

Zakat During Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr

Ramadan, the blessed month of fasting, holds special significance for Muslims. It is during this month that many Muslims give their Zakat.

Additionally, the end of Ramadan is celebrated with Eid al-Fitr, which marks the completion of fasting. Giving Zakat during this time is highly encouraged as it purifies one's wealth and helps the less fortunate celebrate the joyous occasion.

How is Zakat different from Fitra?

Zakat and Fitra are two, distinct forms of charity in Islam. Fitra cannot be given in place of Zakat, and vice versa.

Fitra, also known as Zakat al-Fitra or Sadaqat al-Fitr, is a specific form of charity given at the end of Ramadan before the Eid prayer. Its primary purpose is to purify the fast and make up for any shortcomings or minor sins committed during the month of Ramadan.

It is also intended to provide for the needs of the less fortunate, ensuring that they can also partake in the joyous celebration of Eid.

When is fitra given?

Fitra is given specifically during the month of Ramadan, before the day of Eid al-Fitr. It must be paid before the Eid prayer to ensure its distribution to the needy on the day of celebration.

How is fitra calculated?

Fitra is calculated on a per-person basis, including every member of the household, including children and infants. It is usually based on the cost of staple food items consumed locally.

The recommended amount for Fitra varies from region to region, and it is advisable to consult local scholars or Islamic organizations for the specific calculation.

Who is eligible to receive fitra?

Fitra is given to the poor and needy individuals who may not have enough to meet their basic needs or enjoy the festive occasion of Eid. It is intended to ensure that everyone can partake in the celebrations and enjoy the blessings of Eid.

While both Zakat and Fitra are forms of obligatory charity in Islam, they have different purposes, timings, calculation methods, and beneficiaries. Zakat is a broader form of charity aimed at redistributing wealth throughout the year, while Fitra is specifically associated with Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr, focusing on purifying the fast and providing for the needs of the less fortunate during Ramadan.

Other Common Questions

What is the purpose of Zakat?

Zakat serves multiple purposes, including helping those in need, purifying one's wealth, fostering social justice, and promoting compassion and generosity.

As for gains granted by Allah to His Messenger from the people of other lands, they are for Allah and the Messenger, his close relatives, orphans, the poor, and needy travelers so that wealth may not merely circulate among your rich. Whatever the Messenger gives you, take it. And whatever he forbids you from, leave it. And fear Allah. Surely Allah is severe in punishment. Quran, Surah Al-Hashr 59:7.

We can see from this verse that Zakat is intended to ensure that wealth is not concentrated among the rich, but rather distributed among the poor and needy. It also serves to purify one's wealth and promote compassion and generosity.

Alms-tax is only for the poor and the needy, for those employed to administer it, for those whose hearts are attracted to the faith, for freeing slaves, for those in debt, for Allah's cause, and for needy travellers. This is an obligation from Allah. And Allah is All-Knowing, All-Wise. Quran, Surah At-Tawbah 9:60.

We see again that the purpose of all forms of charity, including Zakat, is to help those in need, including the poor, the needy, and those in debt.

Are there exemptions or exceptions for Zakat?

Certain individuals, such as the poor, debtors, and those unable to meet their basic needs, are exempt from paying Zakat. However, it is important to consult with knowledgeable scholars or Islamic organizations to determine specific cases.

We have from the Sunnah the following:

Sadaqah may not be given to a rich man, with the exception of five classes: One who fights in Allah's path, or who collects it, or a debtor, or a man who buys it with his money, or a man who has a poor neighbour who has been given sadaqah and gives a present to the rich man. From Sunan Abi Dawud 1635.

Can Zakat be given to non-Muslims?

While Zakat is primarily intended for Muslims, there are certain categories, such as those in debt, the poor, and those seeking to embrace Islam, for whom Zakat can be given.

Conclusion

As a new Muslim, embracing the practice of Zakat is a significant step towards fulfilling your obligations as a believer. It not only purifies your wealth but also contributes to the well-being of society. Seek guidance from reliable sources, such as local scholars or reputable Islamic organizations, to ensure you fulfill the requirements of Zakat accurately.

Aman Azad

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