Khums is a 20% obligatory Islamic tax on certain items that we own, payable under specific conditions.

For Muslims, under specific guidelines, paying Khums is part of a larger role of financial responsibility within the ummah. By paying Khums, Muslims help bring justice to society and strengthen humanity by donating excess wealth and savings.

This is referenced in Holy Qur’an, where it states:

“Know that whatever of a thing you acquire, a fifth of it is for Allah, for the Messenger, for the near relative, and the orphans, the needy and the wayfarer”  Surah Anfal, Verse 41

Sehme Imam and Sehme Sadaat

Khums is split into two portions, Sehme Imam and Sehme Sadaat.

The Sehme Imam portion of Khums is delivered to projects approved by Maraja. The Sehme Saadat portion of Khums is delivered to Sadaat (descendants of the Prophet (SAW) in need.

The Zahra Trust has permission to collect Khums from most of the leading Maraja including Ayatullah Sayed Ali al-Sistani, allowing us to distribute Khums funds towards our welfare projects and Sadaat in need.

Sehme Imam may go towards our Water Aid program, our country-based appeals (such as Afghanistan and Pakistan), our Orphans, Widows & Vulnerable program, or other humanitarian projects. Sehme Sadaat will often be delivered to Sadaat orphans, widows and vulnerable children.