Is the obligation fulfilled if charity is given to someone believed to be poor who is later discovered to be wealthy?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Expiations
Primary text
There are differing opinions regarding whether the obligation is fulfilled if charity is given to someone perceived as poor who turns out to be wealthy. One view, held by Al-Shafi'i, Abu Yusuf, Abu Thur, and Ibn Al-Mundhir, states that it is not sufficient because the poor were not actually fed, similar to the case where poverty was known beforehand. The evidence cited is analogous to the ruling concerning Zakat distribution.
Supporting text
The second view, held by Abu Hanifa and Muhammad, states that it is sufficient because the giver directed the charity to someone appearing poor, fulfilling the outward appearance of poverty. This is justified because poverty is often hidden, and ascertaining its true nature is difficult. Evidence is found in the verse concerning those who restrain themselves from begging, whom the ignorant may regard as wealthy (Quran 2:273), and in the hadith where the Prophet, peace be upon him, stated that charity is not for the wealthy or the strong earner, after two men requested alms.