About Zakat

What is Zakat?

Literally, Zakat means to 'purify'. It refers to the purification of a Muslim's wealth and soul. Wealth purification denotes the mobilization of assets for the purpose of financial growth and justified distribution. Purification of the soul implies freedom from hatred, jealousy, selfishness, uneasiness and greed. Other Qur'anic connotations include the purification of sin.

Technically, Zakat is a fixed proportion collected from the surplus wealth and earnings of a Muslim. It is then distributed to prescribed beneficiaries and for the welfare as well as the infrastructure of a Muslim society in general. This contribution is made payable by a Muslim once in every lunar year (Islamic Calendar/Hijri).

Zakat is paid on the net balance after a Muslim has spent on basic necessities, family expenses, due credits, donations and taxes. Every Muslim male or female who at the end of the Hijri year is in possession of the equivalent of 85 grams of gold (Nishab) or more in cash or articles of trade , must pay his or her zakah at the minimum rate of 2.5%.

What is Sadaqah?

Sadaqah is a voluntary act of giving alms 'fi sabillilah' (for the cause of Allah), by Muslims who want to contribute more than their obligatory zakat payment. Sadaqah may be given to mark or bring blessings to occasions such as weddings, anniversaries, personal success or even instances of sadness or bereavement. In short, sadaqah can be given during any period of happiness or sadness or as a sign of gratitude to Allah Subhanu wa Ta'ala.

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