Is the "wazi'a" —which was performed as a polytheistic offering before Islam and continued as charity and cooperation thereafter— considered Islamically invalid because its origin is polytheistic, and is its revival considered a revival of an innovation?

The "Wazi'ah" is when the villagers collectively participate in purchasing a cow or a sheep, with each person contributing according to their ability, and the poor are often exempted. Then, the meat is distributed equally among the villagers.

The correct view is that there is no objection to it, and that the division here is a segregation of rights, not a sale. Its foundation is built upon leniency and solidarity, not exchange.

The "Wazi'ah" does not fall under innovation (bid'ah); rather, it is a cooperation in good deeds and benevolence towards the poor. It resembles the actions of the Ash'aris, which the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, praised.

However, if the "Wazi'ah" is slaughtered for a grave or a sheikh, this is reprehensible, and it becomes an act of polytheism (shirk) or innovation (bid'ah) and a means to shirk.