بِسْمِ اللَّهِ الرَّحْمَنِ الرَّحِيمِ
الرَّحْمَـٰنِ
الرَّحِيمِ
الْمَلِكِ
الْقُدُّوسِ
السَّلَامِ
1446 - ذُو الْقَعْدَة الْحَرَام
الْمُؤْمِنِ
الْمُهَيْمِنِ
الْعَزِيزِ
الْجَبَّارُ
الْمُتَكَبِّرُ
L
O
A
D
I
N
G
Fajr
04:15 AM
✓
Asr
07:00 PM
Maghrib
08:55 PM
Isha
10:45 PM
Jumu'ah
02:00 PM
Zakat Al-Mal
زكاة المال
Text Size:
Zakat al-Mal (often simply called Zakat) is the obligatory annual charity and one of the five pillars of Islam, representing a fundamental act of worship and social responsibility. Linguistically, Zakat means "purification" and "growth," signifying that paying Zakat purifies one's wealth from greed and selfishness while causing it to grow in divine blessing (Barakah). The obligation is established by clear Quranic verses and numerous Hadith: "And establish prayer and give Zakat, and whatever good you put forward for yourselves,you will find it with Allah" (2:110). Zakat al-Mal is due on specific categories of wealth that have reached the minimum threshold (Nisab) and have been held for one lunar year (Hawl). These categories include gold, silver, cash, business merchandise, livestock, and agricultural produce. The standard rate is generally 2.5% of surplus wealth, though rates vary for different asset types (e.g., 5-10% for rain-irrigated crops). The recipients are specified in the Quran (9:60): the poor, the needy, Zakat administrators, those whose hearts are to be reconciled, those in bondage, debtors, those fighting for Allah's cause, and travelers. Zakat functions as an economic system redistributing wealth, purifying the giver's character, and ensuring social justice. It differs from Sadaqah (voluntary charity) in its obligatory nature, specific rules, and designated recipients. When paid with sincere intention (Niyyah), Zakat fulfills the rights of the poor and brings immense spiritual reward.
Viewed 104 times
Browse Dictionary
Join Our Mission to Preserve Islamic Knowledge
"The best of you are those who learn the Quran and teach it."
- Prophet Muhammad ﷺ
Missing Terms
Is there an Islamic term you'd like to see explained? Share it with us and help others learn.
Report Issues
If you notice any inaccuracies or areas for improvement, please let us know so we can correct them.
Source References
Have authentic references or additional information for existing terms? We welcome contributions.
Arabic Corrections
Help us ensure Arabic spellings and diacritical marks are accurate.
Together, we can build the most comprehensive and accurate Islamic dictionary online.
Submit Your Feedback
Donate Now !
Registered Charity
