Those Entitled to Receive Zakat
– The Poor (Al-Fuqara): The poor person is one who has neither wealth nor income that meets their basic needs.
– The Needy (Al-Masakin): The needy person is one who has some income or resources, but not enough to fully cover their basic needs.
– Zakat Administrators (Al-Amileen): These are individuals appointed by Muslim authorities, or selected by recognized organizations, to collect, distribute, safeguard, transport, and invest Zakat funds within the bounds of Islamic law, as well as to educate the public about Zakat rulings. They must meet specific conditions to qualify.
– Those Whose Hearts Are to Be Reconciled (Al-Mu’allafatu Qulubuhum): This category includes two groups:
– Non-Muslims whom it is hoped will be drawn toward Islam, or whose harm and hostility may be prevented through giving – if no other means of averting their harm exists.
– Weak-hearted Muslims whose commitment to Islam needs strengthening, or whose giving may encourage others like them, or help facilitate the collection of Zakat from their communities.
– For the Freeing of Slaves (Fi Al-Riqab): This refers to liberating enslaved individuals from bondage, which is the opposite of freedom. It also includes the ransoming of captives and prisoners of war.
– The Indebted (Al-Gharimoon): These are people burdened by debt. Not every debtor qualifies; they must meet specific conditions to be eligible.
– In the Path of Allah (Fi Sabilillah): This refers to striving in the way of Allah in its broader sense, understood by Islamic scholars as protecting and upholding the religion and the word of God. It includes:
– Funding Islamic outreach and da’wah centers in non-Muslim countries.
– Supporting efforts that strengthen Muslim minorities living under oppression or domination by non-Muslims.
– The Stranded Traveler (Ibn Al-Sabil): This is a traveler who has been cut off from their wealth and resources. Specific conditions must be met for them to receive Zakat assistance.
