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Atta-ur-Rehman

Is it Allowed to Give Zakat to My Wife?

8 min read

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No, Zakat cannot be paid to one’s wife.

Here’s why:

  • Men’s Obligation to Support Their Wives

The Quran states that men are financially responsible for their wives:

“Men are responsible for financially supporting women with the resources God has provided them, using what they earn and spend from their wealth.”

(Surah An-Nisa: 34)

Providing for a wife’s needs, such as food, clothing, medicine, education, and bills, is an obligatory expense. This must be fulfilled before paying and calculating Zakat.

  • Zakat is Paid From Excess Wealth

Zakat is only due on wealth that remains after fulfilling essential obligations. It is paid from the surplus, before spending on any luxuries.

The Quran instructs:

"They ask you what they should give, say, 'al-affwoo' (the surplus)."

(Surah Al-Baqarah: 219)

  • Recipients of Zakat

The Quran specifies the recipients of Zakat (Masarif-e-Zakat), such as parents, close relatives, orphans, and the needy:

"Zakat (Sadaqaat) is meant for the poor (Fuqaraa’), the needy (Al-Masaakeen), those appointed to collect it, to win over the hearts of those inclined towards Islam, to free captives, those in debt, for the cause of Allah (such as those engaged in a righteous struggle), and for travelers who are stranded and in need."

(Surah Al-Tawbah 9:60)

It is important to note that the wife and children are not listed among the recipients of Zakat. This omission does not imply we should neglect them. Rather, it highlights that all essential spending on our family (wife and children) takes precedence over Zakat.

And Allah knows best!

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WRITTEN BY

Atta-ur-Rehman

Atta-ur-Rehman, a specialist in Fiqh from Fazal-Jamiat-ul-Uloom-ul-Shariah, Jama'at ul-Umar Karachi, is an expert in Islamic jurisprudence. His expertise spans various aspects of Shariah, including Zakat, financial rulings, family laws, and ethical guidance in everyday life. With a deep understanding of Islamic principles, he provides a reliable insights into matters of faith, worship, and personal obligations.