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Zakah
Obligatory charity to help those in need
Zakah (charity) is the third pillar of Islam. It is an obligatory act of giving a portion of one's wealth to those in need, purifying one's wealth and helping society.
What is Zakah?
Zakah means "purification" and "growth" in Arabic. It is an annual payment of 2.5% of one's savings and wealth to help the poor, needy, and other specified categories.
2.5%
Annual payment on savings and wealth
Who Pays Zakah?
Every adult Muslim who possesses wealth above a certain threshold (nisab) for a full lunar year must pay Zakah.
Who Receives Zakah?
- The poor and needy
- Those employed to collect Zakah
- Those whose hearts are to be reconciled
- Those in bondage (slaves and captives)
- Those in debt
- In the cause of Allah
- The wayfarer (travelers in need)
Benefits of Zakah
- - Purifies wealth and soul
- - Reduces poverty and inequality
- - Encourages social responsibility
- - Brings blessings and growth to one's wealth