The Benefits of Zakat and Sadaqah and Their Types

Living in a society where people only think about themselves and ignore the needs of others brings no good. In such a society, you will find hungry and homeless people on the streets, the poor struggling under dilapidated roofs, and those who have been defeated by poverty resorting to deceit or theft.

To address this, Allah has ordained Zakat and Sadaqah in Islamic society. These acts of charity aim to establish justice, foster unity among Muslims, and cultivate empathy for the suffering of others. In this article, we will discuss the significance of Zakat and Sadaqah and their various types. However, before diving into that, let us first understand the distinction between Zakat and Sadaqah.

What Are the Differences Between Zakat and Sadaqah

• The Definition

Zakat refers to a specific amount of money Muslims must give to the poor and needy. Zakat is the third pillar of Islam, as mentioned in the authentic Hadith narrated by Abdullah bin Umar that the Messenger of Allah said:

(The superstructure of al-Islam is raised on five (pillars), testifying (the fact) that there is no god but Allah, that Muhammad is His bondsman and messenger, and the establishment of prayer, payment of Zakat, Pilgrimage to the House (Ka'ba) and the fast of Ramadan.)

On the other hand, Sadaqah encompasses any voluntary contribution made by Muslims to support the impoverished and destitute. It serves as a means of seeking closeness to Allah and seeking forgiveness for one's sins. Types of Sadaqah includes both voluntary acts of charity and obligatory charity, which is Zakat.

• The Ruling 

The legal rulings regarding the religious obligation of Sadaqah (voluntary charity) and Zakat are as follows:

Voluntary Charity (Sadaqah al-Nafilah): It is recommended. This can be inferred from the verse in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 271, where Allah says: (To give charity publicly is good, but to give to the poor privately is better for you, and will absolve you of your sins. And Allah is All-Aware of what you do.1.)

Obligatory Charity (Zakat): It is compulsory since it is one of the five pillars of Islam, and its obligation is mentioned in various places in the Quran. One of these instances is found in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 43, where Allah says: (Establish prayer, pay alms-tax,1 and bow down with those who bow down.)

Types of Zakat

As Zakat is a religious obligation, Islam has established specific rules governing its payment, including when a Muslim becomes liable to pay it. To understand these rules better, let's explore the different categories of Zakat:

• Zakat on Wealth 

For Zakat to become obligatory, an individual must possess wealth above a certain threshold known as the "Nisab," determined by the general mufti of each country. The Zakat amount is calculated as 2.5% of the total value of the wealth, which the owner must pay as Zakat.

• Zakat on Gold and Silver 

Zakat becomes obligatory when an individual owns a specific amount of gold or silver, such as 87.5 grams of gold or 612.4 grams of silver. Once the possession reaches this threshold, the owner is required to calculate and pay the corresponding Zakat amount.

• Zakat on Trade

 Zakat on trade applies to goods and merchandise intended for commercial purposes. There are specific conditions outlined by the relevant authorities, such as the General Iftaa Department in Jordan, which provide guidelines for traders to calculate and fulfill their Zakat obligations accurately.

• Zakat on Crops

 This type of Zakat is due to agricultural yield and crops harvested from the land. Its obligation is derived from the command of Allah in verse 141 of Surah Al-An'am: (Eat of the fruit they bear and pay the dues at harvest). The General Iftaa Department in Jordan has further defined the conditions and criteria determining when Zakat is obligatory for crops.

• Zakat Al-Fitr

Zakat al-Fitr is an obligatory donation given before the joyous occasion of Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan. It is compulsory for every Muslim, regardless of their wealth or possessions. Look at our detailed article about rulings and conditions regarding Zakat al-Fitr.

• Zakat on Animals

Certain animals, such as cows, sheep, and camels, are subject to Zakat based on specific thresholds determined by the general mufti of the country. The obligation varies based on the age and maturity of the animals, and the owner must fulfill their Zakat responsibilities accordingly.

Regarding Sadaqah and Zakat Benefits

Zakat has the remarkable ability to cleanse and multiply its givers' wealth while drawing them closer to Allah; this happens when Zakat is given with a sincere and seeking heart solely for the sake of Allah. Additionally, Zakat helps purify the soul from greed and the love of material possessions. It is important to note that Sadaqah's benefits are similar to Zakat's. Sadaqah also serves to purify the soul and eradicate traits of stinginess and selfishness.

Furthermore, the societal benefits of Zakat and Sadaqah are evident in the establishment of solidarity and the fair distribution of wealth among its rightful owners and those deserving of support. Zakat reminds affluent individuals of the transient nature of their wealth, for it ultimately belongs to Allah, who has blessed them with it to assist the less fortunate. This realization significantly impacts the mindset of the needy, as they experience compassion and relief from their hardships and recognize the generosity of Allah upon them.

In various forms, such as material and financial contributions, kind words, and voluntary acts, Sadaqah enhances mutual support and strengthens the bonds of unity among Muslims. It instills in their hearts the essential value of consistently offering goodness without seeking worldly compensation.

Benefits of Zakat and Sadaqah, as promised by Allah in verse 261 of Surah Al-Baqarah: (The example of those who spend their wealth in the cause of Allah is that of a grain that sprouts into seven ears, each bearing one hundred grains. And Allah multiplies ˹the reward even more˺ to whoever He wills. For Allah is All-Bountiful, All-Knowing.)

How to Properly Fulfill Your Obligations

It is essential to prioritize close relatives in urgent need of Sadaqah and Zakat. However, if such relatives are not found, the impoverished individuals within your community, including your less fortunate neighbors, are deserving recipients of Zakat and Sadaqah. 

To assist you in fulfilling your duties correctly, we have established a dedicated program at Tkiyet Um Ali for collecting Zakat funds and ensuring their delivery to those in need. Take action now and perform Zakat on your wealth through Tkiyet Um Ali.