Does the required Zakat amount diminish if it is paid from the principal asset (camels) in subsequent years?
Chapter on Zakat on Sheep
Al-Mughni
Book of Zakat
Primary text
The primary position holds that since the obligation in subsequent years arises from property other than the principal asset (the camels), the count of the principal asset does not decrease, similar to when Zakat is paid from a different source. This distinguishes it from other forms of wealth where the due Zakat is intrinsically linked to the asset itself, causing a reduction upon payment.
Supporting text
Al-Shafi'i holds two opinions regarding the Zakat of five camels upon which several years have passed without payment. One opinion suggests the due Zakat diminishes, similar to other wealth, meaning only one sheep is due because the herd has fallen below the full five camels after the first year's obligation was met, thus rendering any further obligation void, analogous to owning four camels and a fraction of a fifth.