Islamic jurisprudence
The Four Madhabs and Zakat
The four Sunni schools agree on the fundamentals but differ on rules that materially change your calculation — especially regarding jewellery.
Key differences at a glance
| Rule | Hanafi | Maliki | Shafi'i | Hanbali |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Worn jewellery zakatable? | Yes | No | No | No |
| Zakat on minor's wealth? | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Payment immediate on hawl? | No | Yes | Yes | No |
| Advance payment permitted? | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
Explore each madhab
Hanafi Madhab
South Asia, Turkey, Central Asia
Worn gold and silver jewellery is zakatable.
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Maliki Madhab
North and West Africa
Worn jewellery is exempt. Zakat is due on a minor's wealth. Payment must be immediate.
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Shafi‘i Madhab
East Africa, Southeast Asia
Worn jewellery is exempt. Zakat is due on a minor's wealth.
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Hanbali Madhab
Saudi Arabia, Gulf states
Worn jewellery is exempt. Zakat is due on a minor's wealth.
Read full guide →
Ready to calculate your Zakat?
All four madhabs. Live gold and silver prices. Takes under two minutes.