Understanding Rikaz: Zakat on Treasure Troves in Islam

The Obligations of Zakat on Buried Treasures: Exploring the Concept of Rikaz

Question: Is there a nisab (minimum threshold) for treasure troves, and is one-fifth of any amount found subject to zakat?

Answer: First, it is important to understand the term “rikaz.” Not all treasures found in the earth are classified as rikaz. Rikaz refers to ancient buried treasures from the time of pre-Islamic ignorance. If someone finds a buried treasure and there is evidence that it dates back to pre-Islamic times, it is considered rikaz. Imam Malik and Imam Shafi’i (may Allah have mercy on them) explained that rikaz refers to wealth from the age of ignorance. Whether it is a large or small amount, one-fifth (20%) must be given as zakat. This is not the case for minerals or ores, which are not considered rikaz. There is no minimum threshold for rikaz; any amount found must have one-fifth extracted as zakat, as the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “And in rikaz there is one-fifth” (Sahih Bukhari: 1499). There is a scholarly debate about whether this one-fifth is considered zakat or fay (war spoils). Regardless, it is certain that one-fifth must be extracted, and this higher amount is due to the fact that the treasure is found without any effort.

Respondent: Sheikh Maqbool Ahmed Salafi Hafizahullah 

Jeddah Dawah Center, Saudi Arabia  

Interpreter: Hasan Fuzail