Determination of " Fī Sabīlillāh" in the Verse of Zakāt Expenditures (An Analytical Study in the Light of the Opinions of Mujtāhid Imāms and Contemporary Scholars)

آیت مصارفِ زکوۃ میں ’’فی سبیل اللہ‘‘ کی تعیین (ائمہ مجتہدین اور معاصر اہل علم کی تصریحات کی روشنی میں تجزیاتی مطالعہ)

Abstract

The Qur'an has outlined these eight categories for the expenditure of zakāt; among them, an important category is "Fī Sabīlillāh." The literal meaning of "Fī Sabīlillāh" is generally understood as striving in the path of Allah. Generally, its concept and meaning are very broad. However, in the verse on the expenditures of zakāt, who exactly qualifies as "Fī Sabīlillāh"? On this issue, the opinions of Mujtāhid Imāms Fuqahā, Mufassirīn, and contemporary scholars differ. The present article examines the determination of "Fī Sabīlillāh" based on evidence. Contemporary scholars advocate for an unrestricted interpretation of "Fī Sabīlillāh." Some suggest a limited scope, while the majority of Muḥaddithīn and Fuqahā consider its scope to be very narrow. Both sides possess numerous arguments supporting their viewpoints. Among contemporary scholars, Dr. Allāmah Qarḍāwī has adopted a moderate position, including different types of jihād such as jihād with the pen and jihād with the tongue. This article will first present the views of later and contemporary scholars, followed by the opinions of the majority, and then analyze their arguments.