Khilafat-e-Rashidah — Page 31
KHILAFAT-E-R A SHIDAH 31 favour, and when he considered it harmful, he decided against it. The words, [in most matters], show that it was not necessary for the Prophet sa to comply with all of their wishes; rather, he had the authority to reject defective opinions and to give his own verdict. Sixthly it is mentioned: (Al-Taubah, 9:103) O Muhammad sa , take alms out of their wealth in order to cleanse their hearts and improve their economic condition, and always treat them kindly. In this verse, Allah, the Almighty has given three commandments. First, take Zakat , for it will create feelings of kindness and regard for the poor. Second, spend it in such a way as improves the condition of the poor, that they may also advance with the world. Third, it is enjoined in the words, , not to be harsh while collecting Zakat; rather, always be kind with them. This is why whenever the Prophet sa sent collectors of Zakat, they were particularly directed not to take the healthy and fat animals, but to take those animals which were presented willingly, and not to seek robust animals. They were directed to be as lenient as was permitted by the sharia and the law.