Institutionalizing the Silver Nisab: Translating Fiqh Norms into Zakat Governance in South Sulawesi

Abstract

The widening disparity between gold and silver values complicates the operationalization of nisab because the benchmark chosen not only determines the threshold of zakat liability but also affects institutional consistency and the scope of muzakki. Despite the rapid development of zakat studies, empirical evidence on how fiqh-based nisab norms are translated into institutional practice remains limited. This study examines the implementation of the silver nisab at BAZNAS South Sulawesi Province through qualitative field research integrating semi-structured interviews, observation, institutional document analysis, and a theological-normative approach. Credibility was strengthened through source and technique triangulation. The findings show that, during the study period, BAZNAS South Sulawesi adopted a 595-gram silver nisab under BAZNAS Chairman Decree No. 36/2020 through a hierarchical implementation process. However, formal adoption did not produce full institutional alignment: public information still displayed a different benchmark, operational differences remained around haul, payment timing, and the calculation base, and wider implementation was constrained by uneven dissemination, legacy benchmarks, limited digital communication, low zakat literacy, and underused local collection networks. The study conceptualizes nisab as an institutionally translated normative threshold and highlights the need to harmonize regulation, procedures, information systems, and amil capacity.