What is the definition of both the Miskin (needy) and the Faqir (poor), what is the difference between them, and do their characteristics change with the passage of time?
Scholars have differed on the meaning of faqīr (poor) and miskīn (needy) and the distinction between them, presenting several opinions:
The first opinion: The faqīr is in a better state than the miskīn.
The second opinion: The miskīn is in a better state than the faqīr. They cite as evidence the Almighty's saying: "As for the ship, it belonged to poor people working in the sea" (Quran 18:79), and the Prophet's (peace be upon him) seeking refuge from poverty and his supplication to live and die as a miskīn.
The third opinion: There is no difference between them in meaning.
The description of poverty and wealth varies according to time and place.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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- Summary from Ftawy's records, reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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