Zakāt (زكوة)
Etymology and Translation
The term Zakāt (زكاة) originates from the Arabic root word zakā, which means “purification,” “growth,” or “blessing.” In the context of Islamic jurisprudence, Zakāt signifies a required almsgiving or charity for Muslims. It reflects the idea that giving alms purifies the wealth of the remaining assets. The Turkish equivalent for Zakāt is also Zekât.
Overview
Zakāt is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, representing a mandatory form of charity grounded in both social responsibility and religious duty. Its foundation rests upon an express command found in the Qurʾān, particularly in Sūrah Al-Baqarah (2:77), making it a central element of practical Islamic faith. The institution of Zakāt mandates that it be incumbent upon any free, sane, adult Muslim who owns the requisite amount of wealth or property, known as niṣāb, for one full lunar year, known as ḥaulu ’l-ḥaul.
Eligibility and Exemptions
Muslims possessing wealth above the nisāb threshold must pay Zakāt, which is generally calculated at a rate of 2.5% on accumulated wealth and savings. Certain assets and property types are exempt, including personal residences, clothing, household furniture, and tools used for earning a livelihood.
Notably, individuals with debts equal to or exceeding their possessions are also exempt from Zakāt. Specific guidelines exist for different forms of property, as detailed below:
Livestock
- Camels: Zakāt is applicable to those owning five camels or more and is progressive based on the number of animals.
- Cattle: Applies to owners of over thirty cattle, with specific rates based on the numbers held.
- Sheep and Goats: Owners of forty or more sheep or goats are required to give Zakāt, calculated based on flock size.
Precious Metals
- Silver: Zakāt is due if one possesses over two hundred dirhams of silver for a year.
- Gold: Zakāt requirements begin at twenty mistqāls of gold.
Merchandise, Minerals, and Agricultural Produce
- Merchandise: Evaluation at 2.5% of the appraised value if it exceeds two hundred dirhams.
- Minerals and Buried Treasure: One fifth (khums) of the value is applicable.
- Agricultural Produce: Generally, 10% of crops watered by natural means; 5% if artificially irrigated.
Recipients of Zakāt
Zakāt is distributed among seven categories of recipients:
- Faqīrs: Those with some property but below the nisāb.
- Miskīns: The completely destitute.
- Zakāt Collectors: Those who administer the collection and distribution.
- Slaves: To aid in their liberation.
- Debtors: Those unable to settle their debts.
- In the way of Allah (Fī sabīlillāh): Typically interpreted as supporting religious endeavors.
- Travelers: Those who are stranded or in need.
Books for Further Study
- “Fiqh al-Zakāt” by Yusuf Al-Qaradawi.
- “Islamic Jurisprudence” by Abdur Rahman I. Doi.
- “The Five Pillars of Islam: Laying the Foundations of Divine Love and Service to Humanity” by M.A. Draz.
- “The Book of Alms” from the Hadith collection Sahih Bukhari.
- “Zakāt and Taxation in Islamic Law” by Daud Bakar.
Takeaways and Conclusion
Zakāt is more than a mere financial obligation; it is a transformative act cultivating empathy, reducing poverty, and fostering communal harmony. It represents a balanced approach where spiritual devotion meets practical measures to support those in need.
Understanding the intricacies of Zakāt helps both individuals and communities adhere to the ethical and religious imperatives laid down in Islam. The precise calculations and specified recipients aim to ensure the equitable distribution of wealth, thus fulfilling one of the core missions of Islamic social justice.
By studying the guidelines, historical interpretations, and applications of Zakāt, Muslims can observe this critical pillar of Islam authentically, contributing to both their personal purification and the welfare of society.
