Zakah is a specific form of sadaqah. It is an obligatory expenditure due from those Muslims who possess wealth in excess of their fundamental needs. It is among the pillars of Islam and is the right of Allah, the Exalted, given for the benefit of the Muslim ummah. The word “zakah” means “purification and growth.” Its regular payment purifies the owner’s remaining wealth and purifies his heart from such ailments as greed and selfishness. Note Here: poverty