For six years, Zakât Foundation of America has been receiving inquiries about different aspects of Zakât, from conditions and eligible recipients, to calculations and timing of payment. Many questions asked pertain to contemporary issues that face the American Muslim community. As Zakât is one of the central issue of Islam, mentioned eighty-two times in the Quran, it is essential to promote its understanding.

With the American Muslim community in mind, The Zakât Foundation has compiled and published a comprehensive Zakât “handbook” that will enable American Muslims to understand and properly complete this obligation of faith. To ensure that this handbook accurately represents sound religious rulings and the Sharîah, much research and consultation went into its compilation. Based on the great works of Zakât by our most prominent scholars, it is well grounded and reliable.

The book begins with a basic overview that succinctly and accurately describes the concept and purposes of Zakât in accordance with traditional scholarship. In the chapters that follow, special attention is given to illustrate the personal spiritual significance and proven social efficacy of Zakât. The most common, contemporary, and essential questions about the types of wealth on which Zakât must be paid and its conditions are answered. Also included is a complete description of eligible Zakât recipients in our society and community, as well as the related topics of payment, collection, and distribution of Zakât. Finally, at the conclusion of the book, is a complete and comprehensive Zakât calculation worksheet, designed to promote understanding and ease in completing the Third Pillar of Islam.

This effort was made with the intention of enabling Muslims to better understand the concepts and principles of Zakât, thus giving them the means to properly calculate and distribute the portion of their wealth due to the needy.

It is by the Grace of Allah (SWT) that this project was completed and all good from it comes from Him. As no human effort can be perfect, your suggestions, corrections, and encouragements are always welcome. inquiries@thezakat.org . You can order your free copy by sending a small donation for postage.