Facts About Zakat the Third Pillar Of Islam

Zakat, the third pillar of Islam, is a fundamental expression of social responsibility and compassion within the Muslim faith. This obligatory practice calls for Muslims to allocate a specific portion of their wealth to assist the community, with a special focus on those in need.

By dedicating 2.5 percent of one’s net assets—after accounting for debts and essential family expenses—Zakat emphasizes the importance of economic justice and the duty to care for others as a form of devotion to God.

Facts About Zakat the Third Pillar Of Islam

The Five Pillars of Islam are the basic acts of worship and duties that every Muslim must follow. They are the foundation of a Muslim’s life, helping to guide their faith and daily actions.

What is Zakat?

Zakat is the act of giving a fixed portion of a Muslim’s wealth, usually 2.5%, to help those in need. The word “Zakat” means “purification,” as it is believed to purify the rest of one’s wealth, making it clean and blessed. It also teaches self-discipline, encourages sharing, and helps a person stay humble.

The Importance of Zakat in the Quran and Hadith

1. Wealth increases: This is supported in Sahih Bukhari (Book 24, Hadith 529)Narrated Ibn `Abbas:

The Prophet (ﷺ) sent Mu`adh to Yemen and said, teach them that Allah has made it obligatory for them to pay the Zakat from their property and it is to be taken from the wealthy among them and given to the poor.”

2. Best charity: This hadith is recorded in Sahih Muslim (Book 5, Hadith 2181)Abu Huraira reported Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) as saying:

“Of the dinar you spend as a contribution in Allah’s path, or to set free a slave, or as a sadaqa given to a needy, or to support your family, the one yielding the greatest reward is that which you spent on your family.“

3. Right of the poor: As mentioned in the Quran in Surah Al-Baqarah2:273

˹Charity is˺ for the needy who are too engaged in the cause of Allah to move about in the land ˹for work˺. Those unfamiliar with their situation will think they are not in need ˹of charity˺ because they do not beg

4. The reward for giving: Allah has promised a great reward for the one who pays Zakah: 

“Truly those who believe, and do deeds of righteousness, and perform As-Salat, and give Zakat, they will have their reward with their Lord. On them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve.” [Quran: Surah AL baqarah 2: Ayah 277]

5. Punishment for not paying: (Sahih Muslim 990b) Abu Dbarr reported:

I went to the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) and he was sitting under the shade of the Ka’ba, and the rest of the hadith it the same but for this that he (the Holy Prophet) said:” By Allah, in Whose hand is my life, no person on earth who dies and leaves behind camels, or cattle or goat and sheep, and does not pay Zakat (would be spared the punishment).”.

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Importance of Zakat:

1. Obligatory Act: Zakat is the third pillar of Islam, and all qualifying Muslims must give it annually. It is not optional.

2. Purifies Wealth: Giving Zakat purifies a Muslim’s wealth, making it blessed and clean in the eyes of Allah (SWT).

3. Helps the Needy: Zakat is meant to help the poor, hungry, indebted, and others in difficult situations.

4. Self-Discipline: Zakat encourages self-discipline and keeps Muslims from being greedy or too attached to their wealth.

5. Promotes Equality: By sharing wealth, Zakat helps reduce the gap between rich and poor, promoting a balanced society.

6. Obedience to Allah: Giving Zakat is a form of obedience and gratitude to Allah for everything He has provided.

7. Builds Compassion: Zakat teaches Muslims to be compassionate and mindful of those who are less fortunate.

8. Encourages Humility: It reminds Muslims that wealth is not theirs to keep forever, but a trust from Allah to be shared.

Ruling on Zakat

1. Obligatory Duty: Zakat is a mandatory act for all Muslims who meet the eligibility (Nisab) requirements. It is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and must be fulfilled annually.

2. Specific Amount: The standard amount to be given is 2.5% of a Muslim’s excess wealth, which includes money, gold, silver, investments, and other qualifying assets.

3. Only Eligible Recipients: Zakat must be given to those specified in Islamic law, such as the poor, needy, and others listed in the eight eligible categories. It cannot be used for personal or non-charitable purposes.

4. Intention Matters: When giving Zakat, the giver must have the intention (niyyah) that the wealth is being given specifically for Zakat, not just as a general donation.

5. Annual Obligation: Zakat is due every year, based on the Islamic lunar calendar. A Muslim must pay it if they have maintained wealth above the Nisab threshold for a full year.

Benefits of Giving Zakat

Giving Zakat brings many blessings and benefits both in this life and the hereafter.

1. Purifies Your Wealth: Zakat purifies your money, making it clean and lawful, and helps you become more grateful for what you have.

2. Brings You Closer to Allah: By giving Zakat, you follow Allah’s command, which strengthens your Iman and brings you closer to Him.

3. Helps the Needy: Zakat is a way to directly support those who are struggling, whether they are poor, hungry, or in debt. It creates a more caring, balanced community where everyone looks out for one another.

4. Teaches Compassion and Humility: Giving Zakat helps you understand the struggles of others, encouraging you to be humble and grateful for your blessings.

5. Removes Greed: Zakat helps you detach from materialism and selfishness, focusing on what truly matters—helping others and pleasing Allah.

6. Reward in the Hereafter: The act of giving Zakat brings great rewards in the hereafter, purifying your soul and earning you Allah’s mercy and blessings.

7. Strengthens Community Bonds: Zakat encourages sharing and strengthens the bonds of love, kindness, and support within the Muslim community.

Through Zakat, you not only help others but also grow spiritually, embracing generosity, and fulfilling your duty to Allah.

To whom and In what ways can we give zakaat?

Zakat the Third Pillar Of Islam be given in the following ways, according to the eligible categories:

1. To the Poor (Fakir): Those living in extreme poverty without enough to meet basic needs.

2. To the Needy (Miskin): Those who have very little income and struggle to afford daily necessities.

3. To Zakat Distributors (Amil): Charities or individuals responsible for collecting and distributing Zakat.

4. To Free Slaves (Riqab): Those who are enslaved or in captivity.

5. To Those in Debt (Gharmin): Individuals burdened with excessive debt they cannot repay.

6. For the Cause of Allah (Fisabilillah): Supporting causes or efforts for the sake of Allah, such as spreading Islam or humanitarian efforts.

7. To Stranded Travelers (Ibnus Sabil): Travelers who are stranded and unable to continue their journey due to a lack of resources.

8. To New Muslims or Friends of Islam (Muallaf): Those who have newly embraced Islam or need help in strengthening their relationship with the Muslim community.

These are the only categories eligible to receive Zakat. It cannot be given for things like building mosques or schools.

Who Are Eligible to Give Zakat?

1. Muslims who meet the Nisab: Those who possess wealth above the Nisab threshold (minimum amount of wealth that makes them liable to pay Zakat).

2. Sustained Wealth for One Year: Muslims who have maintained their wealth for a full Islamic year (Hawl) are required to pay Zakat.

3. Wealth that Qualifies: Zakat is paid on assets like money, gold, silver, investments, and properties other than the primary residence or primary vehicle.

FAQ About Zakat the Third Pillar Of Islam

Can a Mother Give Zakat to Her Son?

No, Zakat may not be given to dependents. In the same way a husband cannot give Zakat to his wife because she is dependent on him, parents may not give Zakat to their children because they have a duty to provide for them.

When Do I Need to Pay Zakat?

There isn’t a fixed date for paying Zakat. You can pay it anytime during the year. However, many Muslims prefer to give Zakat during the last 10 days of Ramadan, as it is believed that the rewards for giving during this period are greater than at other times of the year.

Can Zakat be Given to Family?

Yes, Zakat may be given to family members (provided they fit into one of the eligible criteria), but not to immediate family.

Can I Give Zakat to My Parents?

No, you cannot give Zakat to your parents (or grandparents) because you must look after them and provide for them when you can and when they get older.

Can I Give Zakat to My Aunt/Uncle?

Yes, you may give your Zakat to your aunt or uncle (if they fit into the eligible categories) because you are not their dependent and they do not depend on you financially.

How Many Types of Zakat Are There in Islam?

Two Types of Zakat in Islam

1. Zakat:This is a required donation that all Muslims must give if their wealth exceeds the Nisab threshold. The amount can differ for each person based on their wealth. It is important to give Zakat with the intention that it is specifically for Zakat. A general donation doesn’t count as Zakat without this intention.

2. Zakat al-Fitr:

This is a smaller donation given by every Muslim or the head of the household before Eid prayers. It is different from regular Zakat and must be given at the end of Ramadan.

Additionally 

Common Misconceptions About Zakat

1. “Zakat purifies haram wealth”

This is not true. Haram (forbidden) wealth cannot be purified by Zakat. If someone acquires haram wealth, it is not their property in the first place. Zakat is only calculated based on lawful (halal) wealth that belongs to the Muslim.

2. “Zakat must be paid during Ramadan” While many Muslims prefer to pay Zakat during Ramadan because of the extra rewards, Zakat is not limited to this time. It is due annually, based on when a Muslim’s wealth first exceeded the Nisab. If Zakat is due before Ramadan, it should not be delayed.

3. “Zakat is only payable on gold”

No, Zakat is not just for gold. It must be paid on various forms of wealth, including cash, silver, gold, investments, pension funds, stocks, rental properties, and any money owed to you. If a married woman has gold above the Nisab value, she is responsible for paying Zakat on it, although her husband may pay it on her behalf if he chooses.