Ascertaining a Zakaat recipient
Question
There are times when one may perceive a certain individual as deserving of Zakaat assistance based on outward appearances. However, inquiring about their actual financial state directly may be considered inappropriate. In such cases, how does one determine who qualifies as a legitimate recipient of Zakaat?
Answer
It is necessary to make proper enquiries whether one is eligible to receive Zakaat or not. If Zakaat is given to an individual without proper investigation, and it is later discovered that the person was not eligible to receive Zakaat, then the Zakaat will not be discharged. Hence, one cannot be categorized as a recipient of Zakaat on their outward appearance.
- Answered by
- Mufti Mohammed Desai
Where scholars differ, it’s safer to take the more cautious view.
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Source: Darul Ifta Ibn Masood — https://fataawa.co.za/ascertaining-a-zakaat-recipient/
Fatawa SA: https://fatawa.co.za/fatwa/ibnmasood-30640
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