A Right, Not a Favor

Zakat is the third pillar of Islam. Unlike Sadaqah (voluntary charity), Zakat is a mandatory payment (2.5% of surplus wealth) that functions as a right of the poor upon the wealth of the rich. It is not seen as the giver doing a favor to the receiver; rather, the receiver purifies the giver's wealth.

Spiritual Benefits

The word 'Zakat' linguistically means 'purification' and 'growth'. By giving away a portion of wealth, a Muslim purifies the remainder from greed and detachments. It breaks the love of materialism in the heart.

Who Receives Zakat?

The Quran (9:60) specifies eight categories of eligible recipients, including:

• The Poor (Fuqara)
• The Needy (Masakin)
• Debt-ridden individuals
• Those in captivity