Zakat: The Path to Purification
"Purify your wealth, cleanse your heart, and bring balance to the community."
Third Pillar
Zakat is one of the five mandatory pillars of Islam. It is a divine duty for every Muslim who meets the wealth threshold.
Meaning
The word "Zakat" literally means to purify and to grow. By giving, your remaining wealth is blessed and purified.
Nisab (Limit)
You only pay Zakat if your wealth stays above a certain amount (Nisab) for one full lunar year.
Purpose
It is not a tax; it is a right of the poor over our wealth. It ensures no one in our community is left behind.
Sadaqah al-Fitr (Fitrana)
"The Zakat of the Body" — An obligation for every Muslim at the end of Ramadan.
Who must pay?
Unlike Zakat al-Mal, Fitrana is due from every Muslim regardless of age or gender, provided they have food beyond their immediate needs for the day of Eid. The head of household pays for all dependents.
The Deadline
Fitrana must be paid before the Eid al-Fitr prayer. It is highly recommended to pay it a few days early so it reaches the needy in time to prepare for their Eid celebrations.
How much?
The amount is based on one Sa' (approx 2.6 kg) of staple food. In India 2026, the minimum cash equivalent is ₹75 (Wheat), while ₹500 (Dates) is the Prophetic recommendation.
Quranic Foundation
"Take, [O, Muhammad], from their wealth a charity by which you purify them and cause them increase..."— Surah At-Tawbah (9:103)
This verse explains that Zakat is not just about money; it is a spiritual tool that removes greed from our hearts and brings Barakah (blessings) to our lives.
Prophetic Guidance
"Wealth does not decrease because of charity."— Prophet Muhammad ﷺ (Sahih Muslim)
The Prophet ﷺ taught us that while our bank balance might look smaller, the spiritual value and the blessings in our remaining wealth grow beyond measure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Restore the Balance
When we calculate our Zakat accurately, we fulfill a trust given to us by the Creator. Mizan is here to help you uphold that trust with ease and precision.