This same principle applies to Allah’s names and attributes, with resembling names and descriptions being applied to His servants, such as the Living, the Knowing, the Powerful, and the like.

Likewise, the term “zakat” has a general meaning, as illustrated by the Prophet’s saying, reported in the two Sahīh collections (may Allah bless him and grant him peace):

“Every good deed is charity.”

Thus, it is also established in the two Sahīh collections that the Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) said:

“Every Muslim owes an act of charity.”

Obligatory zakat on wealth, however, is due only from some Muslims at certain times. The zakat paired with prayer shares its universal scope, in that every Muslim owes an act of charity, as the Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) explained:

“They asked, ‘What if he has nothing to give?’ He replied, ‘He should work with his own hands, benefiting himself and giving charity.’ They asked, ‘What if he cannot?’ He replied, ‘He should help a craftsman or do work for someone who lacks the skill.’ They asked, ‘What if he cannot?’ He replied, ‘He should refrain from evil.’”

As for his saying in the authentic hadith narrated by Abū Dharr and others:

“Charity is due for every bone in each of you. Every declaration of Allah’s glory is charity; every declaration of His greatness is charity; every declaration that there is no deity worthy of worship except Allah is charity; enjoining what is right is charity; and forbidding what is wrong is charity.”

This, Allah willing, is comparable to the way these deeds bring benefit to created beings, for through deeds such as these, provision, victory, and guidance are obtained. They thus constitute charity toward creation. Moreover, these deeds are a form of prayer, and the form of prayer that