What is the prescribed order for the division of spoils (Ghanimah)?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Jihad
Primary text
The distribution of spoils begins first with the personal effects (Aslab) being returned to their owners because the owner is a helper. Next is the expense for the spoils, covering the wages for transporters, porters, guards, and storage. Then follows either the discretionary reward (Radkh), according to one view, or the one-fifth share (Khums), according to the other. Following this are the Anfal (rewards from the four-fifths) from the four-fifths share, and finally, the remaining four-fifths are divided among the warriors (Ghanimin).
Supporting text
The four-fifths share is prioritized over the Khums for six reasons: 1. The recipients of the four-fifths are present, while the recipients of the Khums are absent. 2. The return of the warriors to their homelands depends on the division of their share, making it more urgent than the share of those already home. 3. The spoils were obtained through the effort of the warriors, making them like those receiving compensation, unlike the recipients of the Khums. 4. Dividing the warriors' share allows each to take and manage their portion, relieving the Imam of responsibility, whereas the Khums, when divided, lacks someone to take responsibility for its handling, necessitating its delay. 5. The Khums cannot be justly divided among all its beneficiaries without knowing their exact numbers and identities, which is difficult while they are absent. 6. The warriors benefit immediately from their shares and can dispose of them due to their presence, unlike the beneficiaries of the Khums.