Is it obligatory to distribute Zakat funds equally among its eight categories of recipients?

The majority of scholars (Malik, Abu Hanifa, and Ahmad) permit the distribution of Zakat (definition) to one or more categories based on need and expediency, citing the Hadith (definition) of Mu'adh (may Allah be pleased with him). As for Al-Shafi'i, he holds that it is obligatory to distribute it among all eight categories, citing the Hadith that divides sadaqat into eight parts.

The majority believes that it is better to prioritize those in most need, and that each category should be given according to its needs. They differed on the amount to be given to a single poor person; Malik and Al-Shafi'i did not specify a limit, while Abu Hanifa disliked giving an amount equivalent to a nisab (definition).