Yes, you can give Zakat to your unmarried brother if he meets the criteria for receiving Zakat.
Who is Eligible to Receive Zakat?
The Quran and Sunnah outline specific categories of individuals eligible to receive Zakat:
- The poor (al-fuqara’): Those who struggle to meet their basic needs.
- The needy (al-masakin): Those who are in need of financial assistance but are not considered poor.
- Zakat administrators (al-mu'allafatu qulubuhum): Those who are working to spread Islam and promote its teachings.
- Freed slaves (al-riqab): Those who have been enslaved and are seeking freedom.
- Debtors (al-gharimin): Those who are burdened by debt and are unable to repay it.
- Wayfarers (al-ibn-al-sabil): Those who are traveling and are in need of financial assistance.
- In the cause of Allah (fi sabilillah): Those who are working to spread Islam and defend it.
Determining Eligibility
To determine if your unmarried brother meets the criteria for receiving Zakat, you need to consider his financial situation. If he is struggling to meet his basic needs or is in need of financial assistance, he may be eligible to receive Zakat. However, if he is financially stable and does not meet the criteria for any of the categories mentioned above, giving him Zakat would not be permissible.
Giving Zakat to Family Members
While you can give Zakat to your family members if they meet the eligibility criteria, it's important to remember that Zakat is a religious obligation and should be given to those who are most in need. It's also important to ensure that you are not giving Zakat to someone who is already financially secure or who does not meet the criteria for receiving Zakat.
Seeking Guidance
If you are unsure whether your unmarried brother is eligible to receive Zakat, you should consult with a knowledgeable Islamic scholar or Imam. They can provide you with guidance based on your specific circumstances.
