Khums is not fulfilled without an official receipt

The following is the official legal opinion (fatwa) from his eminence, Sayyid al-Sistani, in response to a question from his authorized agent (wakeel) Sayyid Murtadha Kashmiri when asked if the obligation of khums is completed by simply delivering dues to the authorized agent.

In the Name of Allah

To the Honorable Sayyid Murtadha al-Kashmiri May God continue his success.

As-Salamu Alaykum wa Rahmatullah wa Barakatuh. We ask the highest and most powerful Almighty Allah to continue his support and success to you all.

In reply to the believers’ inquiries, we emphasize once again for those who pay their religious dues that their fulfillment is not complete by just delivering their dues to an authorized agent/ Wakeel, rather they are obligated to ask him for a receipt which is issued by us (our offices). Otherwise, the payer’s obligation is not considered fulfilled without an official receipt even though the cause may be due to forgetfulness, inadvertent mistake, or otherwise.

I ask almighty Allah to guide all and give them all goodness and success. Peace be up you all.

Seal and signature of Ali al-Hussaini al-Sistani

3 Ramadhan 1425