Muslim students studying in Europe need financial aid
Fatwa No: 81137

Question

What do you think about ZAKAH FOR STUDENTS, esp. in EUROPE? Also, what do you think about a Muslim in the west can take only from a bishop or church. esp if this student is a leader in Muslim affairs.

Answer

All perfect praise be to Allaah, The Lord of the Worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allaah, and that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger.

 

The students who possess money which reaches the Nisaab (i.e. the minimum amount liable for Zakah) and a whole lunar year elapsed on it, are obliged to pay Zakah to the poor Muslims in their country. However, they are permitted to send it to the poor of their own country.

The students who are poor, i.e. who have no income or who have an income which does not suffice them for the whole month, are permitted to take Zakah money.

If a Muslim who resides in the west receives a grant or a gift from a non-Muslim, be it a church or a priest, he is permitted to take it without being negligent in his religion or adulation at the expense of his correct religious principles. 

Allaah Knows best.

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