Masarif e Zakat | Identifying 8 Deserving Categories

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Zakat is an obligatory type of charity in Islam.

It is the best way for wealthy individuals to support the poor and assist them in their tough times. Zakat ensures that those in need get what they deserve.

But how many masarif e zakat are in the Quran, and who can actually receive zakat?

In Surah Al-Tawbah, (9:60), Allah (SWT) said:
“Indeed, charitable offerings are meant to be given to the poor and the indigent, and to those who work on [administering] it, and to those whose hearts are to be reconciled, and to [free] those in bondage, and to the debt-ridden, and for the cause of God, and to the wayfarer. [This is] an obligation from God. And God is all-knowing, all-wise.”

It's important to know that there are eight categories of Zakat explained in the Quran by Allah (SWT).

Let's talk about who qualifies to get zakat.

1. For Poor (Fakirs)

The people who can receive Zakat in this category are very poor and needy. They don't have anything of their own or any way to earn money. Your Zakat can make a big difference in their lives, helping them have better living conditions. These individuals are the most in need, living in extreme poverty. They're among those eligible to receive Zakat.

2. For Needy (Masakeen)

These recipients don't have enough for themselves and their families. They lack savings, a steady income, or a business, and they don't receive necessary support from anyone. Experts suggest giving them enough Zakat money to cover their needs and their families for a year.

3. For Zakat Administrators (Amileen)

These individuals are authorized by the ruler to collect Zakat funds, safeguard them, and distribute them to the needy. They should receive their share of Zakat funds based on their efforts. However, those who give Zakat on behalf of others will not fall into this category.

4. Converted Muslim (Moallafat-al-Quloob: To win hearts)

Zakat should be given to recipients to help them embrace Islam more deeply and strengthen their faith. It can also be given to recipients to prevent them from committing crimes if they're involved in criminal activities. This support aims to discourage criminal behavior as long as it's believed that providing Zakat will deter them from wrongdoing.

5. For Freedom of Slaves (Fi'ar-Riqab)

It is permissible to allocate Zakat funds to free slaves or captives, which encompasses the liberation of Muslim captives held by adversaries. This noble act reflects the compassionate essence of Zakat, offering hope and freedom to those in oppression.

6. For Debt-ridden (Gharimeen)

Someone who is burdened by debt and unable to repay it belongs to this category. Such individuals deserve assistance to settle their debts. Rather than directly giving them money, one may use Zakat funds to pay off their debts to creditors, as the primary aim is debt settlement.

7. In the Cause of Allah (Fisabilillah)

People who dedicate themselves to advancing the cause of Allah, striving tirelessly for the triumph of His word, stand distinct. They are different from those driven by personal pride, racial, or tribal ambitions.

Their efforts are directed towards upholding the glory of Allah, not towards seeking personal gain or the success of their own affiliations.

8. For Wayfarer (Ibn-us-Sabeel)

This refers to a traveler who finds themselves stranded midway through their journey due to a shortage of supplies. In such a situation, it's appropriate to provide them with Zakat funds to support their travel expenses. It's important to know that intentionally relying on Zakat after using up supplies isn't allowed.

Exception of Zakat Recipients: Charity to Relatives

Our beloved Prophet (SAW) emphasized the significance of giving charity to relatives, stating:

"Charity given to a poor person is charity, but charity given to a relative is two things, charity and upholding the ties of kinship."
[Tirmidhi Hadith no: 658]

Important Reminders for Zakat Distribution to Relatives

Here are the key points to remember when giving Zakat to relatives:

Using Zakat funds to save money is not permissible if relatives are among those you are obliged to spend on.
Giving Zakat to entitled relatives is preferred as it promotes both charity and familial bonds.
If your wealth is insufficient to support them, allocating some Zakat funds is permissible.
Paying off relatives' debts with Zakat is allowed, as individuals are not obligated to settle their family's debts.

From the fatwas of Shaykh Muhammad ibn ‘Uthaymeen (may Allah have mercy on him). Fatawa al-Shaykh Muhammad al-Saalih al-‘Uthaymeen, 1/461.

In conclusion, understanding the eight Zakat recipients (masarif e zakat) is vital for fulfilling this important Islamic obligation. By identifying and supporting deserving individuals, we contribute to society's welfare and uphold obligatory charity principles.

Zakat serves to uplift individuals beyond material wealth, emphasizing spiritual and material purification. By giving from their wealth, Muslims contribute to societal well-being, with the promise of abundant rewards in this life and the hereafter.

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WRITTEN BY

Ali Raza (Zakat and Sadaqah Regulations)

Ali Raza holds a Master of Arts in Islamic Studies and is an expert in Islamic theology and jurisprudence. Specializing in Zakat, Sadaqah, and other Islamic donations, Ali's writings provide valuable insights into the religious and ethical aspects of charity. His work for Pakistan Sweet Homes aims to educate and inspire readers to support orphan care and charitable initiatives, making him a key contributor to the organization's mission.