Topics: Charity

Can Zakat Funds Be Used to Build a Madrasa?

Using Zakat and Charity Funds for Madrasa Construction

Question: Can charity, donations, or zakat funds be used to construct a madrasa where poor, orphaned, and regular children study?

Answer: The first issue is that scholars differ on whether zakat funds can be used for constructing a madrasa. Based on the stronger opinion among scholars, zakat funds cannot be spent on madrasa construction since madrasas are not explicitly mentioned among the eight categories for zakat expenditure. However, if a madrasa is exclusively for poor and orphaned children, zakat funds can be used for its construction or for supporting the children.

If a madrasa includes both poor and affluent students, zakat funds cannot be used for its construction or operational costs. However, zakat funds can still be spent on the expenses of poor and needy children.

The second issue is that zakat and other donations should not be mixed. Zakat should be kept separate and spent on its specific categories, while general donations can be used for any righteous cause, such as madrasa or mosque construction or other charitable works.

Respondent: Sheikh Maqbool Ahmed Salafi Hafizahullah 

Jeddah Dawah Center, Saudi Arabia  

English Interpreter: Hasan Fuzail

Author: IslamicHelper

Tags: Zakat
IslamicHelper

View Comments

Recent Articles

The Crisis of Delayed Marriage in Society

In an era of profound social change, the age of marriage is steadily rising, creating silent fractures in our communities.… Read More

2 days ago

Buffalo Sacrifice: Salaf View vs. Ijma Claims

Explore the early Islamic view (Salaf) on buffalo sacrifice. This analysis refutes claims of scholarly consensus (Ijma'), showing how Zakat… Read More

2 days ago

Intimacy in Islam: Guide for Couples in Their 30s

Explore how Islamic teachings can deepen intimacy in your marriage as you enter your thirties. Discover practical tips, Sunnah practices,… Read More

4 days ago

Free Sahih Bukhari PDF Download: English, Urdu & More

Access the authentic teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) with our free Sahih Bukhari PDF downloads. Available in English, Urdu, French,… Read More

2 weeks ago

Hajj in Quran and Sunnah: A Comprehensive Guide with Key References

Discover the profound significance of Hajj, a pillar of Islam, through a comprehensive analysis of its primary references in the… Read More

4 weeks ago

Beware: Shaytan’s Seven Traps to Misguide You

Discover the seven cunning traps Shaytan uses to lead believers astray, as explained by Imam Ibn al-Qayyim. Learn how to… Read More

1 month ago