Zakat, a cornerstone of Islamic practice, is one of the most significant rituals ordained by Allah for Muslims. It serves to balance the disparities between the wealthy and the less fortunate in the Muslim community, extending a helping hand to those in need.
In light of this humanitarian goal, today’s article is dedicated to discussing the specifics of Zakat on worn gold. We will delve into the reality of the obligation of Zakat on this type of gold and how much should be given, along with the best websites that can be used to calculate the Zakat on worn gold.
Is Zakat Due on Worn Gold?
To start with a summary, fulfilling the duty of Zakat on gold, whether for adornment or trade, ensures a Muslim avoids controversy. Sheikh Muhammad Al-Amin Al-Shanqiti states, “Paying Zakat on jewelry is safer as it keeps one away from doubts, for one who avoids doubtful matters clears himself in regard to his religion and his honor. Leave what makes you doubt for what does not make you doubt, and knowledge is with Allah Almighty.” This is concluded from “Adwa’ al-Bayan.”
Regarding the obligation of Zakat on worn gold, scholars differ. This divergence is attributed to the intent of the Muslim at the time of purchasing the gold.
If the intention of purchase is solely for adornment, then Zakat is not obligatory on the gold. However, if the intention is for trade or saving, then the obligation of Zakat is unanimous among all scholars.
In other words, the Zakat on worn gold falls into two opinions:
The first opinion mandates Zakat on worn gold even if it was intended for adornment at the time of purchase, considering that gold is a form of wealth circulated among Muslims. Proponents of this view refer to the hadith of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him): “Any owner of gold who does not pay what is due on it, on the Day of Resurrection, the gold will be made into plates of fire for him.”
The second opinion, held by the majority of scholars from various schools like Shafi’i, Maliki, and Hanbali, states that gold intended for adornment is not subject to Zakat, as it becomes akin to clothes and goods and does not fall under the category of wealth.
How Much Zakat is Due on Worn Gold?
To be obligated to pay Zakat on worn gold, ensure it reaches the quorum, equivalent to twenty mithqal or 85 grams of gold, after a complete lunar year of ownership.
The amount of Zakat, as per the hadith of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), is: “There is nothing due on gold until you own twenty dinars. If you own twenty dinars and a year passes, then half a dinar is due. Whatever exceeds that is calculated accordingly.”
And it says: “In silver, a quarter of a tenth…” which means 2.5% of the gold’s value on the day of Zakat.
Best Websites for Calculating Zakat on Worn Gold:
Zakat Fund
The Zakat Fund is an initiative by the United Arab Emirates government. It provides donors with the facility to calculate Zakat on gold specific to the UAE or any other country they choose, based on the current gold price in the respective country.
This fund allows donors to calculate their gold Zakat for different karats of gold, including 18, 21, and even 24 karat, by entering the required information into the designated area on their website.
For more information or to use the Zakat calculator, visit their website at Zakat Fund.
https://www.zakatfund.gov.ae/zfp/web/calculation/individuals/goldzakat.aspx
Ehsan Platform
The Ehsan platform offers a Zakat calculator that enables donors to calculate the Zakat amount for gold, money, or any type of resources designated for trade and growth. This is done by entering specific required data into the designated area on the platform.
This platform calculates the Zakat amount in Saudi Riyals, based on the current gold price in Saudi Arabia and the applicable quorum (minimum amount for Zakat eligibility) within its territory.
For more information or to use the Zakat calculator, visit the Ehsan platform at Ehsan Zakat Calculator.
https://ehsan.sa/zakat/zakatcalculator
UNHCR Zakat Fund
The Zakat calculator provided by the UNHCR website has a significant feature that allows you to calculate the amount of Zakat in the currency of your choice. By inputting the country’s currency and the weight of the gold, the calculator estimates the Zakat value for you.
For more information or to use the Zakat calculator, visit the UNHCR Zakat page at UNHCR Zakat Calculator.
Masarat for Education and Youth Empowerment in Northern Syria
In Masarat, we launched our educational initiative aimed at providing all necessary online educational services completely free for affected Syrian students, especially orphans, those with special needs, those disconnected from education for long periods, and residents in displacement camps.
To support our initiative and expand the beneficiaries among Syrian children, you can contribute to their learning journey and compensation for their losses by donating your Zakat on gold to the Masarat Initiative.
Let’s start together to spark positive change in the lives of our children, collectively paving the way towards a better future through any contribution that carries the hope of success. Join us today in building a generation capable of uplifting their society and achieving their dreams.
