احادیثِ نبوی ﷺ کی روشنی میں نظامِ زکوٰۃ: مستحقین اور موانعِ زکوٰۃ کا تحقیقی مطالعہ

The System of Zakāt in the Light of Prophetic Traditions: A Research Study of Its Eligible Recipients and Disqualifying Factors

Abstract

Zakāt is a fundamental pillar of Islam that plays a crucial role in promoting social justice and economic balance. While the Qur’an explicitly identifies the categories of Zakāt beneficiaries, the Prophetic traditions (Ahādīth) provide detailed clarification regarding those who are not entitled to receive Zakāt. This complementary relationship between the Qur’an and Sunnah ensures clarity, precision, and effective implementation of the Zakāt system. This research study examines the system of Zakāt in the light of Prophetic traditions, with particular focus on the concept of Mawāni‘ al-Zakāt (factors that disqualify individuals from receiving Zakāt). The study highlights that just as Zakāt recipients are limited to specific categories, those prohibited from receiving Zakāt are also clearly defined. Special emphasis is placed on the concept of Ghinā (financial sufficiency), which is one of the primary disqualifiers. The research analyzes the definitions of Ghinā as provided by classical jurists. Imām al-Shāfi‘ī defines Ghinā as the minimum level of wealth that renders a person ineligible for Zakāt, whereas Imām Abū Ḥanīfah considers possession of Niṣāb as the criterion for being classified as wealthy. The study further explores relevant Prophetic traditions that prohibit Zakāt for the affluent, emphasizing that Zakāt is intended exclusively for the needy and deserving. The findings demonstrate that the Prophetic guidance regarding Zakāt disqualification safeguards the integrity of the Islamic welfare system, ensuring fair distribution and preventing misuse. This study reaffirms the indispensable role of Sunnah in interpreting and implementing Qur’anic injunctions related to Zakāt.