On the contrary...

On the contrary, if that portion is insufficient to fulfil their requirements then they must be provided for, either from the public treasury or from the zakat. In view of the above three points, it is quite clear that no differentiation has been exhibited between the Sadat and the non-Sadat, materially. The needy non-Sadat can procure their yearly expenses from zakat but are deprived of khums, whereas the indigent Sadat can procure theirs from khums but, in turn, remain deprived from Zakat.

In fact, there exist two coffers; the ‘coffer of Khums’ and the ‘coffer of Zakat’. Each of these two groups has the right to utilize the contents of only one of these two coffers, and that too, equally – that is, one year’s requirements only. But those people who have not reflected on these conditions and details are assuming that the Sadat have been allotted a greater share from the public treasury or that they enjoy a special distinction.

The only question that looms up here is that if there is no difference between the two, as far as the outcome is concerned, what is the benefit of such a classification?

The answer to this can be comprehended by taking one important point into consideration and that is, there exists an important fundamental difference between Khums and Zakat; Zakat is considered to be of the taxes that are regarded as part of the general funds of the Islamic society and hence it is essentially utilized in this sector, whereas Khums is of the taxes appertaining to the Islamic Government – that is, the expenses of the Islamic Government and its functionaries are paid from it.

Thus, keeping the Sadat deprived of the general funds (Zakat) is in fact with the objective of keeping the relatives of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a) away from these funds. Otherwise, the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a) (3) would be accused of placing his relatives in control of the general funds.

But on the other hand, as the needy and the impoverished Sadat do need to be looked after too, it has been stipulated in the Islamic Laws that they would be supported from the funds of the Islamic Government and not from the general funds. Thus, in reality, not only is Khums not a distinction for the Sadat, but on the contrary, it is a means to sideline them in view of the general interest and to prevent the arousal of any kind of suspicion and mistrust (4). NOTES: _______________ 1.

Descendants of the noble Prophet (Tr.) 2.