Zakat is an obligatory alms-giving in Islam, often mentioned alongside establishing prayer, and its payment is a sign of faith, while its non-payment is associated with disbelief.
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Obligation and Importance
The Quran commands believers to establish prayer and give zakat.1,2,3Those who do not give zakat are described in the Hereafter as disbelievers.4,5Giving zakat is a characteristic of those who are certain in faith regarding the Hereafter.6,7,8,9The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ ordered the collection of zakat, and it is compulsory on individuals like his uncle, Abbas bin Abdul Muttalib.10
Pillars of Islam and Faith
The superstructure of Islam is raised on five pillars, which include the payment of zakat.11,12,13The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ stated that Islam includes establishing prayer and paying zakat.14,15,16,17The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said he was commanded to fight people until they testify to Allah's oneness, establish prayer, and pay zakat.18
Types and Conditions of Zakat
Zakat al-Fitr was given as a Sa' of food, barley, dried dates, raisins, or cheese when the Messenger of Allah ﷺ was present.19The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ indicated that no zakat is payable on less than five camels, less than five ounces of silver, or less than five camel loads (wasq).20The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ stated that whatever reaches a quantity on which zakat is payable is not considered a treasure (kanz) when the zakat is paid.21The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ wrote a letter about sadaqah (zakat) specifying amounts for camels, and this letter was acted upon by Abu Bakr and Umar.22,23
Purification and Reward
The Quran instructs to take charity from wealth to purify and cause increase for the givers.24Whatever good one puts forward for themselves, they will find it with Allah.1Those who give zakat will receive a great reward.25