What are the minimum required ages for sheep (Dha'n) and goats (Ma'z) given as Zakat?
Chapter on Zakat on Sheep
Al-Mughni
Book of Zakat
Primary text
For the Zakat of sheep, the *Jadh'a* (one who is six months old) suffices. For goats, the *Thani* (one who is one year old) is required. If the owner volunteers a better aged animal regarding the specification, it is permissible. If the required age for the nisab is available, that specific age must be taken. If all the livestock are older than the minimum requirement, the owner has the choice to pay one animal of the higher age or purchase the animal of the prescribed age and pay it.
Supporting text
Abu Hanifa, in one narration, holds that only the *Thani* from both sheep and goats suffices, as they are considered two types of the same genus, thus requiring a singular standard, analogous to the various types of camels and cattle. Malik holds that the *Jadh'a* from both suffices, based on the saying, 'Our right is only in the *Jadh'a* and the *Thani*.'