What is the ruling concerning the *Safi* (chosen portion) from the spoils of war during the lifetime of the Prophet?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Deposits
Primary text
The *Safi*, which is the portion the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) selected from the spoils before distribution, such as a female slave, a male slave, a garment, or a sword, was his prerogative. This position is held by Muhammad ibn Sirin, Al-Sha'bi, Qatadah, and others among the people of knowledge. The evidence for the legitimacy of the *Safi* includes the Prophet's letter to Banu Zuhayr ibn Aqish stating that upon acceptance of Islam and payment of Zakat, one-fifth of the spoils, and the share of the *Safi*, they would be secure. Furthermore, in the narration concerning the delegation of Abd al-Qays, it is stated that they should give the share of the Prophet and the *Safi*. Aisha narrated that Safiyyah was part of the *Safi*.
Supporting text
A group of scholars denied that the *Safi* was specifically for the Prophet, citing the narration from Amr ibn Shu'ayb, from his father, from his grandfather, that the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) picked up a single strand of hair from his camel's back and said, 'What is permissible for me from what Allah grants you is not even like this, except for the one-fifth.' This is refuted based on the Quranic injunction stating, 'And know that whatever you take as spoils of war - indeed, for Allah is one-fifth of it' (Quran 8:41), implying the remainder belongs to the fighters.