Qualities the Zakat Recipient Must Possess
Zakat, one of the foundational stones of Islamic civilization, aims to increase social welfare and to multiply the number of "giving hands" by reducing the number of "receiving hands."
Zakat, one of the foundational stones of Islamic civilization, aims to increase social welfare and to multiply the number of "giving hands" by reducing the number of "receiving hands." As a basic rule, the recipient of zakat must be free and Muslim. Zakat is not given to members of the Hāshimī (Prophetic family) lineage as a mark of respect; their needs should be watched over by the state. Eight basic classes eligible to receive zakat have been defined, each with its own legal and social details. The document emphasizes that the zakat recipient is not merely a passive receiver but an actor with important duties such as praying for the giver, questioning whether the earnings are lawful, and asking only for what he needs.
The eight classes mentioned in the Qur'an are detailed from contemporary and legal perspectives as follows:
1. Basic Needy People: The Poor and the Indigent
Although scholars differ over the definition of these two terms, the basic distinction is as follows:
- Faqīr (Poor): One unable to sustain his livelihood; unable to continue his life.
- Miskīn (Indigent): One whose condition is more severe than the poor's; one who lacks even a day's food or basic clothing. According to another interpretation, the indigent is one who, though he has work or a home, cannot meet expenses—one whose "wheel does not turn."
2. Zakat Workers (ʿĀmilīn)
Those who organize the collection and distribution of zakat. Here the rule of "fair wage" (ujrat al-mithl) applies. The salaries of those doing this work in a charity may be paid from the zakat fund, but the wage must not exceed market rate. The judge and head of state are excluded from this class.
3. Details of the Other Six Classes
Key concepts
- Being Free and Muslim
- The basic conditions for receiving zakat are that the person be free and belong to the religion of Islam. Zakat is not given to a non-Muslim.
- Not Being Hāshimī (Prophetic Family)
- Zakat is not given to those of Hāshimī lineage (sayyids) out of respect. This is not punishment but protection of the honor of the Prophetic family. For Ḥanafīs only Hāshimī status is an obstacle; Shāfiʿīs add the Muṭṭalibī branch.
Study questions
In what situations may zakat be given to a person capable of working?
If the person is a scholar (jurist, etc.) and working would obstruct his scholarly activity, he may receive zakat. Zakat may also be given to those who have a trade but lack its tools (the tailor's needle, the programmer's computer, etc.) to supply what is missing.
What is the difference between a student of knowledge and a devoted worshipper regarding eligibility for zakat?
Because knowledge benefits the community of Muḥammad, a student of knowledge may receive zakat rather than work. But worship is a personal act, so it is better for a devoted worshipper to work than to receive zakat.
How are the wages of those working for zakat determined?
According to the principle of "fair wage" (ujrat al-mithl); that is, as much as a person doing the same work in the market receives—unlimited payment is not allowed.
What warning is given in noble reports about those who ask for zakat/charity though they have no need?
It is reported that such people will come on the Day of Resurrection with their faces' flesh fallen away, in a "face torn" (humūsh) state. ---