One of the Five Pillars of Islam is giving of charity (zakat) which occurs during the month of fasting, Ramadan. Zakat is a mandatory form of charity in Islam, considered one of the Five Pillars. It requires eligible Muslims to give 2.5% of their accumulated wealth annually to help those in need. It is meant to purify wealth and promote social equality. The recipients of Zakat are specified in the Quran, including the poor, needy, debt-ridden, and others in hardship (Quran 9:60).
Sadaqah is voluntary charity that can be given at any time and in any amount. It is not limited to money—it includes acts of kindness, helping others, or even a smile. Unlike Zakat, Sadaqah has no fixed percentage and can be given to anyone in need, not just specific groups.
Both encourage generosity and social responsibility, but Zakat is obligatory, while Sadaqah is voluntary.
