The duty of Zakat and all matters related to it are of utmost importance to Muslims, as its fulfillment is pivotal for the well-being of the community and the rectitude of the nation. In this article, we will explain, with evidence from the Quran and Sunnah, the conditions, rulings, and the quorum threshold for Zakat on worn gold jewelry.
Zakat on Worn Gold: Is It Obligatory?
The concept of Zakat on jewelry has been known since ancient times and has been discussed in many places in the books of Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh).
There has been a disagreement regarding the permissibility of Zakat on jewelry due to the widespread use of paper (silver) as an alternative for adornment. It has been mentioned in Sahih Ibn Khuzaymah, may Allah have mercy on him, that ‘The term ‘wariq’ (silver) in the language of the Arabs, to whom we have been addressed, does not apply to jewelry that is used as adornment.’
This leads us to an interpretation of the term in a hadith by the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, which is a reference point for many scholars to affirm the obligation of Zakat on worn gold jewelry, whether intended for adornment or trade. This interpretation arises from the difference in the meaning of the term in ancient times. Aisha, may Allah be pleased with her, the wife of the Prophet, peace be upon him, narrated: ‘The Messenger of Allah, peace be upon him, entered upon me and saw bracelets of silver on my hands.
He asked, ‘What is this, O Aisha?’ I replied, ‘I made them to beautify myself for you, O Messenger of Allah.’ He said, ‘Do you pay Zakat on them?’ I said, ‘No.’ He said, ‘It is enough for you to lead to the Fire.’ Narrated by Abu Dawood and authenticated by Hafiz Ibn Hajar and Sheikh Al-Albani.
Conditions for Zakat on Worn Gold
- Zakat is not obligatory on worn gold if intended for adornment at the time of purchase, as per the general texts and the approval of the majority of scholars.
- Zakat is due on gold intended for saving or trade at the time of purchase, as it is considered a growth of wealth.
- Zakat is obligatory if the gold reaches the quorum of 85 grams of pure gold, provided the following conditions are met:
- Sole ownership, not shared with anyone else.
- A complete lunar year has passed since its possession.
How to Calculate Zakat on Worn Gold
Now, the question is: What are the best methods to pay Zakat on gold after reaching the quorum?
The foundation is to calculate a quarter of a tenth of the gold’s value, equivalent to 2.5% of the total value of the gold, whether it’s a bar or a necklace.
Here are two common methods among Muslims:
Method One
In this method, the amount of Zakat is calculated using the following simple calculation: Total grams of owned gold / 40 = Amount of Zakat
For example, if you own a 500g bar and a 200g necklace, the Zakat due is:
(500+200) / 40 = 17.5g
Method Two
If you prefer to pay Zakat in money rather than gold, this method is suitable for you. Here, you need to calculate the price of the total grams of gold you own on the day of Zakat’s due and then pay 2.5% of the total value.
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