Juristic Disagreement Among Islamic Jurists Regarding the Amount of Zakat Allocated to the Poor and the Needy and Its Implications for Contemporary Jurisprudential Applications

Abstract

This study examines the juristic disagreement among Islamic scholars regarding the amount of zakat that may be given to the poor and the needy, and its impact on contemporary jurisprudential applications. The study takes into account the higher objectives of Islamic law and the evolving realities of modern life. It aims to define the point of disagreement among scholars, present their evidences, and assess the extent to which this disagreement influences contemporary legal issues related to essential human needs. The research adopts a descriptive, analytical, and comparative methodology. It presents the views of leading jurists concerning the permissible amount of zakat distribution, classifying them into three main positions: (1) limiting the amount to the nisab or less, (2) estimating the amount based on sufficiency for one year, and (3) allowing what achieves lasting sufficiency. The study also examines the evidences of each opinion and identifies the view that is most consistent with the relevant legal texts and the overarching objectives of zakat. The study concludes that this disagreement is not merely theoretical with no practical consequence; rather, it is a significant and practical disagreement with clear implications for contemporary legal issues, particularly in matters related to housing, marriage, and medical treatment. The researcher finds that the most sound opinion is the permissibility of granting the poor and needy an amount that ensures lasting sufficiency, as this better fulfills the objective of financial independence and self-sufficiency, effectively alleviates poverty, and aligns with current economic and social conditions. The study also emphasizes the importance of establishing sound legal and institutional guidelines to regulate this approach, ensuring a balance between achieving individual sufficiency and considering the needs of other eligible recipients. It further calls for strengthening organized institutional mechanisms in assessing needs and distributing zakat.