What is the ownership status of Zakat funds received by the poor, the needy, the workers, and the reconciled hearts?

Chapter on Zakat on Sheep

Al-Mughni

Book of Zakat

Book 8 · Issue 1 · Bab 3

Open in Qurani

Primary text

The poor (Fuqara), the needy (Masakin), the workers (Amilin), and those whose hearts are reconciled (Mu'allafati Qulubuhum) acquire permanent and settled ownership of the Zakat received. They are never required to return these funds under any circumstances. This is because the purpose of their receiving the Zakat—enrichment for the poor and needy, reconciliation for the Mu'allafati, and payment for the Amilin—has been fulfilled upon their receipt.