Zakat (زكاة) is a mandatory form of giving in Islam and one of the Five Pillars of the faith. It is an obligation upon eligible Muslims to give a portion of their wealth each year to purify their earnings and support those in need, seeking the pleasure and reward of Allah (SWT).

Zakat must be distributed to specific beneficiary groups outlined in Islamic teachings, such as the poor, those in debt, and others eligible under Islamic guidelines.

Unlike Sadaqah, which is voluntary and flexible, Zakat is obligatory, structured, and governed by clear rules on calculation and distribution.

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: "Islam is built on five pillars: Testimony that there is none worthy of worship except Allah, establishing Salah, giving Zakah, Hajj, and fasting Ramadan."

— Sahih al-Bukhari & Sahih Muslim