Zakat vs. Sadaqah: Multiply Your Charity This Qurbani Season
Charity is at the heart of our faith. It connects us to Allah (SWT), purifies our wealth, and uplifts those in need. Yet many wonder, what is the difference between Zakat and Sadaqah and when is the best time for giving?
It's important to understand the distinction, have clarity, purpose, and a deeper meaning for your generosity. Let’s walk through what makes each one unique and why your giving matters even more during Qurbani season.
What Is Zakat?
Zakat is one of the Five Pillars of Islam; a fundamental act of worship that purifies both your wealth and your soul. It is an obligation for every adult Muslim who owns wealth above a certain threshold, known as the Nisab.
When you give Zakat, you are not simply offering charity. You are fulfilling a command from Allah (swt) and supporting vulnerable communities who rely on this pillar of mercy.
Key facts about Zakat:
- Mandatory for eligible Muslims
- Calculated at 2.5% of qualifying wealth
- Given once every lunar year after meeting Nisab
- Supports the poor, the needy, those in debt, and other groups specified in the Qur'an
“And establish prayer and give zakat, and whatever good you put forward for yourselves - you will find it with Allah. Indeed, Allah of what you do, is Seeing.”
(Qur'an 2:110)
Through Zakat, we cleanse our hearts of greed and renew our connection to Allah and those around us.
🔷 Use our Zakat Calculator to find out how much you owe
What Is Sadaqah?
While Zakat is obligatory, Sadaqah is voluntary. It is a beautiful way to increase your blessings and show kindness to others at any time.
Sadaqah is not limited to money. It can be any act of kindness:
- Offering a meal
- Helping a neighbor
- Even a simple smile
Key facts about Sadaqah:
- It is voluntary, given freely without obligation.
- It is flexible, with no minimum amount or specific timing.
- Every act of Sadaqah is rewarded by Allah (SWT).
- Ongoing Sadaqah, known as Sadaqah Jariyah, supports lasting projects like building wells, schools, and clinics.
Whether during times of hardship, throughout Ramadan, or simply when your heart is moved, giving Sadaqah strengthens your faith and spreads mercy across the world.
|
Category |
Zakat |
Sadaqah |
|
Obligation |
Mandatory (if eligible) |
Voluntary |
|
Amount |
2.5% of qualifying wealth |
Any amount |
|
Timing |
Once per lunar year |
Anytime |
|
Recipients |
Specific groups mentioned in Qur'an |
Anyone in need |
|
Spiritual Role |
Fulfills a pillar of Islam |
Strengthens goodwill and compassion |
Both Zakat and Sadaqah draw you closer to Allah (SWT) and build a more compassionate world. Knowing when and how to give each ensures that your charity carries its fullest blessings.
When Should You Give Zakat?
You should give Zakat when:
- Your wealth exceeds the Nisab threshold.
- One full lunar year has passed since reaching the Nisab amount.
Many Muslims choose to give their Zakat during Ramadan or Dhul-Hijjah because rewards are multiplied during these sacred months. However, it is important to give as soon as your Zakat is due to fulfill the obligation properly.
You can also align your giving with your Qurbani sacrifice, ensuring that your financial obligations and devotional acts come together meaningfully.
Fulfill your Zakat now with Muslim Hands USA.
Zakat and Sadaqah During Qurbani
Qurbani is a special act of worship performed during the blessed days of Dhul-Hijjah, commemorating the sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim (AS). It is a Sunnah Mu’akkadah, meaning it is a highly recommended act for all Muslims who can afford it.
During Qurbani season, you can multiply your rewards by combining your charitable giving in powerful ways.
- Zakat for Qurbani: At Muslim Hands USA, if your Qurbani sacrifice is distributed to those who are eligible to receive Zakat, you can fulfill both your Zakat obligation and your Qurbani at the same time. This ensures your sacrifice reaches those who need it most.
- Sadaqah during Qurbani: Even if you have already given your Zakat, giving Sadaqah during Dhul-Hijjah brings immense blessings. Extra Qurbani shares, feeding additional families, or supporting urgent humanitarian needs all count as meaningful acts of Sadaqah.
Giving during Dhul-Hijjah through Zakat, Sadaqah, and Qurbani brings hope, dignity, and mercy to those facing hardship around the world.
🔷Learn more about giving your Qurbani through Muslim Hands USA.
Why Your Charity Matters
Every act of charity is a step toward a more compassionate and dignified world.
When you give through Muslim Hands USA, your Zakat and Sadaqah:
- Feed families struggling with hunger
- Deliver clean water to remote communities
- Provide urgent medical care in crisis zones
- Build futures through education and sustainable livelihoods
Your giving is not just fulfilling an obligation. It transforms lives through mercy, dignity, and hope.
