Nisab is the minimum amount of wealth a Muslim must possess before Zakat becomes applicable. It serves as a threshold ensuring that only those with sufficient means contribute to Zakat. The concept is rooted in the Prophetic tradition and is recognized across all major schools of Islamic jurisprudence.
For Sunni schools, the gold Nisab is 85 grams (20 mithqals) and the silver Nisab is 595 grams (200 dirhams). In the Ja'fari (Twelver Shia) tradition, the gold Nisab is approximately 69.12 grams (15 common mithqals) and the silver Nisab is approximately 604.8 grams (105 common mithqals). Because gold and silver prices fluctuate daily, the Nisab value in any currency changes accordingly.
Scholars differ on whether to use the gold or silver Nisab when calculating Zakat on cash and other monetary assets. Some recommend using whichever produces the lower threshold as a precaution, while others suggest using gold as it may better represent meaningful wealth in the modern economy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Nisab threshold in dollars?
The Nisab value in dollars changes daily with gold and silver prices. For example, if gold is $70/gram, the gold Nisab (85g) would be $5,950. Check the Mizaan Nisab page for current values.
Should I use gold or silver Nisab?
This depends on your school of thought and scholarly consultation. Some scholars recommend using the lower of the two (typically silver) as a precaution, while others prefer the gold standard as it better represents meaningful wealth today.
Is the Nisab different for Shia Muslims?
Yes. In Ja'fari fiqh, the gold Nisab is approximately 69.12 grams and the silver Nisab is approximately 604.8 grams, which differ from the Sunni consensus thresholds.
Related Terms
Hawl(حول)
The lunar year (approximately 354 days) that must pass on wealth above Nisab before Zakat becomes due.
Zakat al-Mal(زكاة المال)
Zakat on wealth — the annual 2.5% obligation on accumulated assets that meet or exceed the Nisab threshold.
Zakatable Wealth
The portion of a person's total wealth that is subject to Zakat calculation — excluding personal-use items like a primary home and vehicle.
Gold Nisab Threshold
The Zakat threshold based on 85 grams of gold (Sunni) or 69.12 grams (Ja'fari). Used to determine if wealth meets the minimum for Zakat.
Related Tools
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