What is the status of Zakat received by the debtors, those redeeming captives, those fighting in the cause of Allah, and travelers (Ibn al-Sabil)?
Chapter on Zakat on Sheep
Al-Mughni
Book of Zakat
Primary text
The debtors (Gharimin), those redeeming captives (Fi al-Riqab), those fighting in the cause of Allah (Fi Sabilillah), and travelers (Ibn al-Sabil) receive the funds under a conditional arrangement. If they spend the funds on the purpose for which they qualified to receive them, their usage is valid. If they divert the funds from that specified purpose, the funds must be reclaimed from them. Furthermore, if they fulfill their need and have a surplus remaining, they must return the excess, with the exception of the one fighting in the cause of Allah (Ghazi); any surplus remaining after his campaign belongs to him.
Supporting text
Regarding the manumitted slave ('Mukatab) who is unable to pay his freedom price and is returned to slavery after receiving Zakat funds, the dominant view states that any remaining surplus he possesses belongs to his master. However, there is a differing view that if the actual Zakat money remains in his possession, it should be reclaimed from him because it was specifically given for his manumission, which did not materialize. Another interpretation suggests that if the money remains, it is considered that he disposed of the Zakat and acquired its value, implying the recipient's master claims the resulting asset.