Is Zakat permissible for Banu al-Muttalib to receive?
Chapter on Zakat on Sheep
Al-Mughni
Book of Zakat
Primary text
There are two rulings concerning Banu al-Muttalib receiving Zakat. The first ruling states they are not permitted to receive it. This is narrated by Abdullah ibn Ahmad and others, based on the Prophet's saying, "Verily, we and Banu al-Muttalib have not separated in ignorance nor in Islam; we are but one thing," and a narration stating, "Verily, Banu Hashim and Banu al-Muttalib are one thing." Furthermore, they are entitled to a share from the Khums (one-fifth of spoils), which implies they should not receive Zakat, similar to Banu Hashim. The Prophet reinforced this by asking them, "Is not the Khums sufficient for you?"
Supporting text
The second ruling permits them to receive Zakat. This is the position of Abu Hanifa, based on the general meaning of the verse, {Indeed, the charities are only for the poor and the needy} (Quran 9:60). They argue that Banu Hashim should be singled out based on the specific prohibition for the family of Muhammad, and analogizing Banu al-Muttalib to them is incorrect because Banu Hashim are closer and more noble, constituting the Prophet's household (Ahl al-Bayt). Banu al-Muttalib's shared entitlement in the Khums is due to kinship, not a basis for prohibiting Zakat.