Who can receive Zakat?

The Quran specifies eight categories of people eligible to receive Zakat:

1. The Poor (Al-Fuqara):

• Those who lack basic necessities

2. The Needy (Al-Masakin):

• Those who cannot meet their basic needs

3. Zakat Collectors (Al-Amilin):

• Those appointed to collect and distribute Zakat

4. Those Whose Hearts Are to be Reconciled (Al-Mu'allafat-ul-Qulub):

• New Muslims and those inclined towards Islam

5. Freeing of Slaves (Ar-Riqab):

• Modern interpretation includes freeing from oppression

6. Those in Debt (Al-Gharimin):

• People burdened with lawful debt

7. In the Cause of Allah (Fi Sabilillah):

• Various interpretations include Islamic education and welfare

8. Wayfarers (Ibn As-Sabil):

• Travelers in need of assistance