Is it permissible for the Zakat collector to sell Zakat property if required for the fulfillment of their duty?

Chapter on Zakat on Sheep

Al-Mughni

Book of Zakat

Book 8 · Issue 1 · Bab 3

Open in Qurani

Primary text

It is permissible for the collector of Sadaqah (Zakat) to sell the collected property if necessitated by the costs associated with its transfer, sickness, or similar needs. This is supported by the report that the Prophet (peace be upon him) saw a lame camel among the Zakat camels and inquired about it. The collector stated he had exchanged it for other camels, and the Prophet remained silent. This silence implies acceptance of the sale for exchange purposes, which is defined as selling it and buying a similar or different item with the price.

Supporting text

If there is no necessity for selling the property, the sale is not permitted, and it is considered void, requiring the seller to bear liability (dhaman).