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Giving zakat to poor patients
Question
I would like to know whether it is permissible to pay zakat to patients on dialysis on the condition that [the recipient] is financially unable. I have come across many conflicting answers which renders me unable to act. I hope that you have a definite answer to bring me out of my dilemma. Thank you.
Answer
Allah the Almighty says,
Alms are for the poor and the needy, and those employed to administer the (funds): For those whose hearts have been (recently) reconciled (to Truth); for those in bondage and in debt; in the cause of Allah; and for the wayfarer: (Thus is it) ordained by Allah. And
Allah is full of knowledge and wisdom. [At-Tauba: 60]
Allah is full of knowledge and wisdom. [At-Tauba: 60]
The noble verse specifies the categories of zakat recipients which includes "in the cause of Allah". According to the opinion of some scholars, the latter category is not restricted but has been left general to include all kinds of pious and charitable acts
that benefit Muslims.
The ruling
It is permissible to give zakat to patients on dialysis on the condition that they are poor.
Allah the Almighty knows best.
