Is it permissible for a wealthy person to receive Zakat funds as a debtor (Gharim)?

General Chapter

Al-Mughni

Book of Deposits

Book 34 · Issue 1 · Bab 1

Open in Qurani

Primary text

A wealthy person may receive Zakat funds if they are indebted (Gharim) beyond their means of immediate repayment. If a person possesses wealth equivalent to the threshold of wealth (e.g., fifty dirhams) but owes debts that match or exceed that amount, they may be given the amount necessary to clear the debt without falling below the established threshold of wealth. Imam Ahmad permits giving to a debtor who possesses the equivalent of fifty dirhams or its value in gold, provided the debt is not settled without reducing their core wealth. If the debt can be paid without diminishing their established wealth, nothing should be given.