Khums is a key religious duty — but if a father fails to pay it, children aren’t automatically liable; they should, however, take care when using his assets and consult a marja‘ for guidance.
Ultimately, khums is one of the important religious obligations that every Muslim is obliged to pay. If a father does not pay khums, the children do not have direct responsibility in this matter, but they should be careful when using the father’s property and, if necessary, consult their marja‘ (religious authority).
Khums is one of the financial obligations in Islam which, according to the religious rulings, Muslims are required to pay. This religious duty plays an important role in meeting the needs of the Muslim community and helping the poor. Now, if a father does not pay khums, the question arises: what is the duty of the children in this situation? Are the children required to take responsibility for paying their father’s khums? In this article we examine this issue from a jurisprudential and religious perspective.
Khums means the payment of one-fifth of certain income or assets that meet specific conditions. This financial obligation is emphasized in the Qur’an and the narrations and is recognized as one of Islam’s economic pillars. Khums is divided into two parts: the Imam’s share and the share for the sayyids (descendants of the Prophet). The Imam’s share is used for religious and social affairs, and the sayyids’ share is used to help needy sayyids.
Paying khums is not only a religious duty but also has positive economic and social effects. Through khums, social justice is established and the needy in society are supported. Observing these rulings, in addition to fulfilling religious obligations, also helps maintain peace and tranquillity within the family.
The father’s personal responsibility to pay khums
In Islam, each individual is responsible for their own deeds. If a father does not pay khums, this obligation falls on him personally and the children do not have direct responsibility.
Using parental property whose khums is unpaid
If children use assets whose khums has not been paid, they must investigate the matter. If they are certain that the father’s assets are subject to khums and khums has not been paid, using those assets without consulting a marja‘ is not permissible.
Consulting a marja‘ (religious authority)
In such cases, the best course of action is to consult a marja‘. The marja‘ can advise whether using the father’s assets is permissible and, if necessary, provide practical solutions to resolve the issue.
Encouraging the father to pay khums
Children can, with respect and kindness, inform the father about the importance of paying khums. This should be done respectfully and without causing conflict. Presenting the benefits of khums and its positive effects may encourage the father to fulfill this religious duty.
Payment of khums by the children
If the children are financially able, they may choose to pay the khums on assets they have received from the father themselves. This action can ease doubts of conscience and remove uncertainty. However, this step should be taken after consulting a marja‘.
Are children obligated to pay their father’s khums?
No. Paying khums is the personal duty of each individual; children are not responsible for their father’s unpaid khums. However, if they use assets whose khums has not been paid, they should consult a marja‘.
Is it permissible to use assets belonging to a father who has not paid khums?
Using such assets without consulting a marja‘ is not permissible. Children must ensure that the property is not subject to unpaid khums or that the khums has been settled.
How can children encourage a father to pay khums?
With respect and affection, children can inform and educate the father about the importance of khums. Presenting the benefits and positive effects of khums may persuade him.
Can children pay the khums on the father’s behalf?
Yes. If they have the financial ability and consult a marja‘, children can pay the khums on assets they have received from the father.
If the father does not pay khums, is the sin attributed to the children?
No. The sin of neglecting to pay khums is the responsibility of the person who failed to pay it. Children are not responsible for the father’s failure.
