Zakat vs. Sadaqah
vs. Zakat al-Fitr:
Understanding Key Differences
Charity in Islam is a fundamental part of faith, but not all forms of giving are the same. Zakat, Sadaqah, and Zakat al-Fitr each play an important role in supporting those in need. However, they differ in purpose, rules, and timing. Understanding the differences between Zakat, Sadaqah, and Zakat al-Fitr helps Muslims fulfil their religious obligations correctly and maximise spiritual reward. It also ensures that charity reaches those who need it most, at the right time.
Zakat: The Obligatory Annual Due
Zakat is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is a compulsory annual donation for eligible Muslims. It requires giving 2.5% of wealth that has been held for a full lunar year and exceeds the Nisab threshold. Zakat serves two important purposes in Islam. It purifies the wealth of the giver and provides a structured way to support those in need. By distributing Zakat correctly, Muslims help reduce poverty and protect the dignity and well-being of the most vulnerable members of the community.
Sadaqah: Voluntary Act of Kindness
Sadaqah is any act of voluntary charity given for the sole purpose of pleasing Allah (SWT). Unlike the calculated nature of Zakat, Sadaqah has no minimum amount or deadline. It can be a financial donation, a warm meal for a neighbour, or even a simple smile. A powerful form is Sadaqah Jariyah, a continuous charity whose rewards benefit you long after you are gone, such as contributing to a community project such as a well or a mosque or a school or a hospital or an orphanage. Every act, big or small, strengthens the bonds of our Ummah. Learn more about The Power of Sadaqah.
Zakat al-Fitr (Fitrana in Urdu): Purifying Your Fast
Zakat al-Fitr is a specific and obligatory form of charity that must be given at the end of Ramadan, before the Eid al-Fitr prayer. It is traditionally paid as a fixed amount of staple food. Most scholars agree that Zakat al-Fitr equals approximately 3 kg of staple food, although some opinions state 2.5 kg. This difference comes from the original unit of measurement used at the time of the revelation, known as the Saa’, which was equal to four Mud.
Based on classical measurements and the type of staple food used, scholars such as the Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta in Saudi Arabia have concluded that one Saa’ is equivalent to about 3 kg.
Zakat al-Fitr is paid by the head of the household on behalf of every family member, including children and infants. Its purpose is to purify the fasting person from any shortcomings during Ramadan and to ensure that those in need can celebrate Eid al-Fitr without facing hunger.
Read our simple guide to Zakat al-Fitr.
Whether you are fulfilling your obligatory duty or giving voluntarily, your contribution is a lifeline for families struggling on our doorstep.
At Subulus Salaam, we ensure your charity directly supports those in need within our local London communities.
Your Zakat: A Pillar of Faith, A Lifeline for Your Neighbour
As we’ve explored, Zakat is far more than an annual calculation; it is the third pillar of Islam designed to purify our wealth and uplift the Ummah. Understanding your obligation through Nisab and knowing precisely how to calculate what you owe are the essential first steps. But the true spiritual and social impact of your zakat is realised when it reaches those who need it most, transforming a divine command into a tangible lifeline for families facing hardship.
Here in London, on our own doorsteps, many Muslim households struggle in silence. Your contribution is a powerful act of local solidarity. As a trusted, community-focused charity, Subulus Salaam ensures your Zakat reaches deprived families right here in your city, with the dignity and respect they deserve. Don’t let your neighbour face hardship alone.
Fulfil your duty. Calculate your Zakat and donate locally in London today.