The History of the Obligation to Pay Zakat

The migration of Prophet Muhammad and the Muslims from Makkah to Madinah marked a new chapter in the Islamic missionary journey, including developments relating to the obligation of zakat. Upon migration, the Prophet established brotherhood between the Muhajirin (migrants) and the Ansar (local Muslims of Madinah).

In the first year, the Prophet and most of the Muhajirin faced various challenges in daily life in the city formerly known as Yastrib. Not all Muslims lived in comfortable circumstances. Many Muhajirin had abandoned their possessions in Makkah in order to migrate.

Gradually, the conditions of the Muhajirin began to improve. They were able to conduct their routines normally, seeking livelihood through work or trade. Overall, the Muslims’ circumstances began to improve materially.

In the month of Sha’ban in the second year of the Islamic calendar, a revelation was sent down making zakat fitrah obligatory upon all Muslims. Zakat on wealth (maal) became obligatory in the ninth year of the Islamic calendar, applicable only to Muslims who met certain criteria.

Before migration, Muslims had already been introduced to the concept of zakat, as evidenced by verses revealed in Makkah (Makkan revelations) that mention this form of worship.

“And establish prayer, give zakat, and loan to Allah a goodly loan” (Quran 73:20).

The concept of charitable giving through zakat was thus introduced to the Muslim community during the Makkan period, with formal obligations being gradually institutionalised after the migration to Madinah.