What evidence is required if a known wealthy person claims poverty?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Deposits
Primary text
If a person previously known for wealth claims poverty, their statement is not accepted except with evidence confirming that their wealth has been destroyed or depleted. This is based on the Prophetic tradition stating that soliciting charity is only permissible for three categories of people, one of whom is the person afflicted with extreme poverty, such that three men of sound judgment from his people testify that he has suffered poverty, permitting him to solicit until he obtains means of sustenance or provision.
Supporting text
There are two views regarding the number of witnesses required for the testimony of poverty: one view holds that only three witnesses suffice, based on the apparent meaning of the narration. The second view permits acceptance based on the testimony of two witnesses, arguing that their testimony is accepted regarding the rights of individuals (which are based on stinginess and distress), so it is more appropriate for the right of God (Allah). Furthermore, the narration specifically addresses the permissibility of soliciting, so its ruling should be confined to that context.