What is the difference between the فقير (needy) and the مسكين (destitute), and is it permissible to give the entire amount of Zakat to one فقير (needy person)?
Source: FtawySummary from Ftawy's records · added here Sep 2, 2026
Scholars of Islamic jurisprudence and linguists have differed on the distinction between the poor (faqīr) and the needy (miskīn), presenting several opinions. The most prominent among them are: that the needy (miskīn) are in a better condition than the poor (faqīr); or that they are equal; or that the poor (faqīr) possess a dwelling and a servant, while the needy (miskīn) have no wealth. The benefit of this disagreement becomes apparent when someone bequeaths wealth to the poor and the needy. There is no objection to giving the entire to a single poor person in a way that suffices him and alleviates his poverty.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
Read the full answer on Ftawyhttps://ftawy.com/en/questions/45709
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- Original fatwa ID
- 45709
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