Zakat is one of the five pillars of Islam and must be discharged with all its requirements. Unfortunately some businesses are discharging expired goods or items that are unusable as Zakat and this trend appears to be increasing. This is an unacceptable practice as Zakat is a fundamental pillar of Imaan designated as a protection for one’s wealth. Ideally, items given as Zakat should be of the best quality or at least what is usable and acceptable. Zakat should be discharged happily, sincerely and without any reservation.

If items or products given as Zakat are not usable or are of poor quality the Zakat then this can affect the validity of the Zakat. Rasulullah SAW said, "Protect your property by means of Zakat, treat your sick with spending in Sadaqah and seek help from Allah against calamities by beseeching Him through humility.” (Kanzul Ummal - Fazaail Sadaqat)

In another hadith Rasulullah SAW said, "Blessed is the wealth of a Muslim from which he gives to the poor, to orphans and to needy travellers." (Bukhari)

Darul Ihsan Centre