Is the Jizyah obligatory upon monks residing in hermitages?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Jizya
Primary text
The obligation of Jizyah upon monks residing in hermitages is not established. This view holds that they are protected without paying Jizyah, similar to women. Furthermore, killing them is prohibited, and they are considered analogous to women in this regard. Additionally, since they have no means of earning, they are likened to the poor and inactive non-earner. The argument against obligation rests on the protective status granted to them.
Supporting text
It is supported that Jizyah should be obligatory upon them. This is one of the two opinions attributed to Al-Shafi'i. Umar ibn Abd al-Aziz mandated two dinars upon every monk in monasteries, arguing for the generality of the texts establishing obligation, and because they are capable, non-Muslim, able-bodied individuals, thus resembling the deacons (shammas). The argument for obligation is based on the generality of texts concerning non-believers who are capable of payment.