Zakat⭐
زکوٰۃ
زَكَاة
Zakāh
Pronunciation: za-KAHT
☪️Islamic TermsBeginnerFebruary 6, 2026
Obligatory charity given annually by Muslims, one of the Five Pillars of Islam.
Full Definition
Zakat is the obligatory act of giving a fixed portion of one's wealth to specific categories of people in need. It is the third pillar of Islam and represents purification of wealth. Muslims who possess wealth above a certain threshold (nisab) must give 2.5% of their savings annually to the poor, needy, and other designated recipients.
Etymology & Origin
From the Arabic root "z-k-w," meaning "to purify," "to grow," or "to increase." The act of giving zakat purifies one's wealth and soul.
Synonyms
AlmsgivingObligatory charity
Tags
charityfive pillarsobligationwealthpurificationsocial justice