How do Al-Fuqara and Al-Masakin Differ from Each Other?

The terms al-Fuqara ("the poor") and al-Masakin ("the needy") describe individuals in need.

However, scholars have different interpretations regarding their distinctions. 

Here are the main differences:

• Al-Masakin refers to those who have nothing in terms of wealth or assets. They are completely destitute individuals, lacking even the necessities of life.
• Al-Fuqara, on the other hand, refers to those who may have some wealth but not enough to meet their basic needs or live comfortably. In other words, their possessions fall short of sufficiency, and they are still in need of support.

Different Islamic schools of thought offer varying views:

• The Hanafi school holds that al-Masakin refers to those who are entirely destitute. In contrast, al-Fuqara are those who possess a small amount of wealth, less than the Nisab of Zakat.
• Other schools, however, reverse this interpretation. They view al-Masakin as those who have some wealth but are still insufficient for their needs, and al-Fuqara as the ones who are completely destitute.

Thus, while both terms describe individuals in need, the primary difference lies in the extent of their wealth. Al-Masakin are in a more severe state of deprivation, while al-Fuqara have some means but still require assistance due to their insufficient wealth.

This distinction has practical implications in Islamic charity, where both groups of (Masarif-e-Zakat) are eligible for Zakat. However, the level of their need may influence the type and amount of assistance they receive.

And Allah knows best!