—or eight; the important thing is that all of them be included. This is because these categories are mentioned with the conjunction indicating shared entitlement. Likewise, just as war booty must be given to all the categories, Allah, Exalted is He, says:

“And know that whatever spoils you obtain, then one-fifth of it is for Allah, the Messenger, near relatives, and orphans …” [al-Anfal 8:41]

The scholars have stated that war booty is divided into five shares: four for the fighters, while the fifth share is itself divided into five shares.

Likewise, if you were to say, “This money belongs to Zayd, ʿAmr, Bakr, and Khalid,” or, “This money is for students of knowledge, worshippers, and those striving in Allah’s cause,” then it belongs to all of them. This is likewise the case here. There is no doubt that this view is strong; however, when there is evidence taking it outside the implication of this wording, then it is necessary to follow what indicates that it falls outside this implication.

Evidence has come showing that it is permissible to restrict it to a single category. Allah, Exalted is He, says:

“If you disclose your charitable offerings, they are good; but if you conceal them and give them to the poor, that is better for you.” [al-Baqarah 2:271]

Here, charitable offerings include both zakah and voluntary charity. Allah has referred to zakah using the term charitable offerings, as He says:

“Zakah expenditures are only for the poor and for the needy and for those employed to collect it …” [al-Tawbah 9:60]

It is also established by the Prophet’s statement when he sent Muʿadh, may Allah be pleased with him, to Yemen: “Teach them that Allah has made charity obligatory upon them, to be taken from their wealthy and returned to their poor.” (1)

And because the Messenger of Allah, may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him, said to Qabīṣah, may Allah be pleased with him: “Remain with us until the charity comes to us, and we shall order that some be given to you.” (2)