Why can’t the government be considered agents who distribute Zakah, therefore allowing us to offset tax paid against Zakah?

Q: Why can’t the government be considered agents who distribute Zakah, therefore allowing us to offset tax paid against Zakah?   الجواب حامدا ومصليا ومسلما ومنه الصدق والصواب A: There are three important considerations to your question:  Firstly, does the state have the authority to collect Zakah from its subjects? Secondly, if tax is collected by the […]

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Is there a difference of opinion amongst jurists regarding ‘payment in kind’ for Zakah?

Q: Is there a difference of opinion amongst jurists regarding ‘payment in kind’ for Zakah?   الجواب حامدا ومصليا ومسلما ومنه الصدق والصواب A: There is a difference amongst jurists as to whether Zakah has to be given from the same wealth for which it is liable.  E.g., if Zakah is payable on wheat then whether wheat […]

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Please elaborate on the intention needed for Zakah.

Q: Please elaborate on the intention needed for Zakah.   الجواب حامدا ومصليا ومسلما ومنه الصدق والصواب A: When giving Zakah to the recipient one must make the intention that what he/she is giving is being given as Zakah. Without this intention, the money given will be a form of optional charity and not Zakah.  However, when […]

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Are my earnings as a waiter serving Haram food, considered as Halal income?

Q: Are my earnings as a waiter serving Haram food, considered as Halal income? In light of the fatwa regarding permissibility of working in supermarkets that sell alcohol, is it permissible for me to work as a waiter, serving Haram food?   الجواب حامدا ومصليا ومسلما ومنه الصدق والصواب A: Whilst in principle the two scenarios are […]

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What is the ruling on travel insurance?

Q: What is the ruling on travel insurance? Is the ruling the same as regular insurance?   الجواب حامدا ومصليا ومنه الصدق والصواب A: The ruling for conventional travel insurance is the same as conventional general insurance.  Quite often, medical facilities are not even free for residents of many countries.  I am not aware of […]

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Can I invest in premium bonds?

Q: Can I invest in premium bonds? The Al-Qalam Shariah Scholars Panel is respectfully requested to advise on the Islamic position regarding premium bonds. Are they a suitable way for Muslims to invest? الجواب حامدًا و مصليًا و منه الصدق و الصواب A: Premium Bonds are not suitable for Muslims to use as an investment […]

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