- Banu Hashim
- Banu Qurayza
- Banu Nadir
- Banu Asad
Zakat, one of the five pillars of Islam, is an obligatory charity paid by eligible Muslims to purify their wealth and support the needy. However, it is important to note that Zakat cannot be given to the tribe of Banu Hashim, the noble family of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).
The Banu Hashim is a respected sub-clan of the Quraysh tribe and includes the Prophet (ﷺ), his descendants, and close relatives such as Imam Ali (RA), Fatimah (RA), Hasan (RA), and Husayn (RA). According to authentic Hadith, the Prophet (ﷺ) said:
“Indeed, charity (Zakat) is not permissible for Muhammad or the family of Muhammad.”
(Sahih Muslim)
This ruling is based on the principle that Zakat is a form of purification for the giver’s wealth, and it is considered inappropriate for the family of the Prophet (ﷺ) to accept such purification. Instead of Zakat, members of Banu Hashim were to be supported through other lawful means, such as Khums (a fifth of war booty) and the public treasury (Bayt al-Mal).
This restriction applies specifically to obligatory Zakat and not necessarily to voluntary charity (Sadaqah), depending on the circumstance and intention.
In summary, Zakat is prohibited for Banu Hashim out of respect for their unique status in the Muslim community. Understanding this rule helps ensure that Zakat is distributed in accordance with Islamic principles.
