Is it permissible to pay Zakat on male sheep when the herd consists only of males?
Chapter on Zakat on Sheep
Al-Mughni
Book of Zakat
Primary text
If the entire Zakat due amount consists only of males, then taking a male sheep is permissible without dispute (unanimously for sheep). It is permissible in cattle based on the stronger of two opinions, and there are two opinions regarding camels. The justification for differentiating between sheep and other livestock relates to the specific prescriptions regarding age in camels, where introducing a male could equalize obligations across different age brackets unnaturally.
Supporting text
Abu Hanifa permits paying Zakat with a male sheep instead of a female, arguing that the term 'shāh' (sheep) applies to both genders, similar to the rulings for sacrifice and offering (Hadī).