Answer: No recommendation has been reported for that. What does exist is that certain deeds are carried out in odd numbers, such as: istijmār—wiping oneself with three stones or three wipes—and eating dates to break the fast in sets of three. In cases like these, yes, the Sunnah has come: “Allah is Single and He loves the odd-numbered,” and the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) used to treat some matters in an odd number. Therefore, whatever is mentioned in the Sunnah as being done in an odd number should be done in an odd number.

Social Security Benefit
Question: I was enrolled in school but then dropped out. I used to receive a stipend from the Social Security Department, and they would not pay it to me unless I brought a letter from the school proving that I was still attending. Whenever they asked for one, my uncle would go to the school and obtain it, after which they would disburse what I “deserved.” Is the money I receive lawful or forbidden, and is the money I receive from Social Security subject to zakah or not?

Answer: If these sums that Social Security disburses are a scholarship granted for study, then it is not permissible for you to take them unless you are actually studying. If you have discontinued your studies, it is not permissible for you to take anything from it, for that would be taking wealth without right. Likewise, it is not permissible for the school to issue you a certificate stating that you are studying when you are not; this is considered lying and fraudulent manipulation, both of which are unlawful. As for what you mentioned—if money of this sort accumulates with you, is it liable for zakah?—