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The recipients of Zakat, also known as Masarif-e-Zakat, are explicitly mentioned in Surah At-Tawbah (Surah Tauba), verse 60 of the Holy Qur’an. This verse outlines eight categories of people who are eligible to receive Zakat, making it a foundational verse in the study of Islamic economics and social justice.
The verse is as follows (Qur’an 9:60):
“Zakat expenditures are only for the poor, the needy, those employed to collect [zakat], to attract hearts [towards Islam], to free the captives, for those in debt, for the cause of Allah, and for the stranded traveler – an obligation [imposed] by Allah. And Allah is Knowing and Wise.”
This classification is crucial for any Muslim seeking to distribute Zakat properly according to Shariah. It ensures that Zakat reaches those most in need and fulfills its primary purpose of wealth purification, social support, and reducing poverty and inequality.
This ruling is unanimously agreed upon by Islamic scholars and is an integral part of Islamic Fiqh (jurisprudence). The mention of these categories in Surah Tauba highlights the Qur’an’s comprehensive guidance on financial responsibility and social ethics.
Key Facts:
Masarif-e-Zakat are listed in Surah Tauba, verse 60.
There are 8 eligible categories of Zakat recipients:
The poor (al-fuqara)
The needy (al-masakin)
Zakat administrators
Those whose hearts are to be reconciled
To free slaves
People in debt
In the cause of Allah (fi sabilillah)
The wayfarer (ibn al-sabeel)
This verse is the primary source for Zakat distribution rulings in Islamic law.
Found in Qur’an 9:60, one of the most quoted ayahs in Islamic economic jurisprudence.
Ensures wealth circulation and social justice in the Muslim community.
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