Khums
Al-Mahdi Islamic Community Centre is authorized by Al-Sayyid Al-Sistani to allocate 50% of Khums (100% of the Sehme Imam portion) for its capital projects and operating expenses. The Sehme Sadat portion is directed by the Marjae’s Office to assist needy descendants of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW). Permission has also been granted by Sayyid Mohamed Hussein Fadlullah to use 100% of Khums for the Centre’s needs. Ijazas (permissions) are available upon request.
Khums, meaning “one-fifth,” is an obligatory (wajib) Islamic tax of 20% on surplus income (savings), supporting religious and community needs. This includes BOTH Personal and Business savings. This is referenced in the Qur’an (8:41), where it states that “Know that whatever of a thing you acquire, a fifth of it is for Allah, for the messenger, for the near relative, and the orphans, the needy and the wayfarer”. Khums purifies one’s earnings, ensuring they are lawful (halāl). Failing to pay may lead to divine consequences.
All adult Muslims are required to pay Khums on surplus income, either immediately or annually on a set date. Parents or guardians are responsible for minors.
Visit Al-Maarif for resources, including a seminar by Sayyid Muhammad Rizvi, and the World Federation for an easy-to-understand guide on Khums rulings, calculations, and more.
Al-Maarif Website World Federation Website