Definition and Meaning of Khums
Khums (Arabic: خُمْس) is an Islamic obligation requiring Muslims to pay one-fifth (20%) of specific types of income to designated beneficiaries. Initially directed towards war booty acquired during the Prophet Muhammad’s era, its application later extended to other forms of profit, significantly within Shia Islam.
Etymology
The term “Khums” originates from the Arabic word خُمْس, which means “one-fifth”. This etymology reflects the core principle of the obligation – the allocation of 20% of specified gains.
Historical Background and Evolution
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Early Islamic Period: In the nascent stages of Islam, Khums was primarily applied to war booty, with a portion directly allocated to Prophet Muhammad and his family.
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Post-Prophet Era: Following the death of Prophet Muhammad, the Khums principle evolved. By the thirteenth century, it was bifurcated into two segments:
- Sahm-e Sadat: Half of Khums was allocated for the impoverished descendants of Muhammad.
- Sahm-e Imam: The remaining half was distributed among religious scholars (mujtahids), with part directed to the Imam and part for the poor and orphaned descendants of Muhammad.
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Modern Era in Shia Islam: Particularly among Twelver Shia communities, Khums became pivotal for sustaining religious scholars and institutions. This fiscal mechanism endowed the Shia clergy with a degree of independence from political rulers, significantly influencing sociopolitical dynamics, such as during the Iranian Revolution.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
While Khums is particularly emphasized in Shia Islam, various Sunni theological interpretations exist regarding its relevance in contemporary times. Additionally, similar concepts of charitable giving and taxation exist across differing Islamic sects, including Zakat.
Synonyms and Antonyms
- Synonyms: Islamic tax, Guenig (historically), Religious obligation
- Antonyms: Secular tax, Non-remittable income
Related Terms
- Zakat: Another form of Islamic charitable giving, typically specified as a mandatory 2.5% of savings.
- Sadqa: Voluntary charity above mandatory Islamic taxes.
Exciting Facts
- Historical Political Influence: Khums has historically allowed Shia clerics to maintain autonomy and influence, notably in Iran and parts of Iraq.
- Modern Application: Current Shia religious leaders hold Khums as a means to support religious, educational, and welfare endeavors.
Quotations from Notable Writers
“Khums provides a financial substrate that allowed the religious leadership to operate independently of the political authority, which became a pivotal factor during the Iranian revolutionary movements.” — Hamid Dabashi, Shi’ism: A Religion of Protest.
Suggested Literature for Further Studies
- “The Shi’a World and Iran” edited by Edmund Herzig and Bridget Kendall.
- “Shi’ism in America” by Liyakat Takim.
- “Islamic Government” by Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini.
- “Introduction to Shi’i Islam” by Moojan Momen.
Farewell Thought
In understanding Khums, one delves into a comprehensive exploration of how faith can economically and spiritually support a community while shaping the broader sociopolitical landscape.
Thank you for journeying through the facets of Khums. May your pursuit of knowledge inspire further explorations into the intertwining paths of faith and finance.
— Abul Abbas, October 2023
