The words we use to describe our actions matter, especially when it comes to fulfilling religious obligations. In the context of zakat, it is essential to distinguish between ‘donating’ and paying.
When we donate, we give voluntarily. It is an act of kindness or generosity, offered from the goodness of our hearts. This is the nature of sadaqah- a charitable deed that is encouraged but not required. The language of donation implies choice, and while it is commendable, it is not binding.
Zakat, however, is not a voluntary contribution- it is a divine obligation. It is one of the five pillars of Islam, a right that the poor and needy have over the wealth of the affluent. Therefore, it is not something we donate; it is something we pay. The term pay carries the connotation of fulfilling a due- much like paying a debt or a tax. It reflects the responsibility and accountability that comes with it.
An even more fitting term might be to discharge zakat, as it highlights the sense of duty being fulfilled. To discharge an obligation is to carry it out as required, leaving no debt unpaid. Using precise language reinforces the seriousness of zakat- it is not simply an act of goodness but a religious duty owed to God.
Words Matter: A Recommendation to Charities and the Muslim Community
I have been advising charities over the years and, Alhamdulillah, some Muslim charities and organisations have started using the term pay instead of donate when referring to zakat. This is a positive step. However, many still use the language of donation, which unintentionally weakens the understanding of zakat as an obligation.
It is vital for charities, masajid, and Islamic organisations to be intentional with their language. By consistently using terms like pay or discharge rather than donate, they help preserve the correct Islamic framing of zakat. This small but significant linguistic shift reinforces that zakat is not an optional charity- it is a mandatory act of worship and justice.
Likewise, as individuals, we should be mindful of how we speak about zakat. When we use the word pay, we affirm that zakat is a debt we owe, not a favour we offer. Conveying Islamic duties accurately in other languages is crucial. By being precise with our words, we protect the integrity of zakat and help cultivate a stronger sense of accountability and reverence for this divine obligation.
Shaykh A. Hasan, Zakat Specialist, Islamic Psychology Expert, The British Board of Scholars & Imams (BBSI), The Global Imams & Scholars Council (GISC)