Stewardship & Charity

Can Zakat be given to Non-Muslims?

There is general agreement that Zakat is not to be given to anyone who is fighting against Islam and Muslims; this is a point that does not need much elaboration. As for others who are non-combatant, and do not show enmity towards Islam and Muslims then medieval scholars differed as to whether such a person can be given Zakat.

Zakat on Gold and Silver Jewelry

There are three popular opinions about paying Zakat on Jewelry. One that states it is never paid, another that differentiates between that worn for adornment versus that held for value, and the third that states any jewelry is liable for Zakat as long as it reaches Nisab. The more correct of these three opinions is the third, that Zakat is always paid without exception on any gold or silver that is in possession for  one year or more.