The role of ijtihad in expanding zakat distribution

Abstract

The patterns and stayles of human life today have changed. Current developments from various angles have led to new issues including the distribution of zakat funds. Hence, a comprehensive approach should be taken to address these issues. Ijtihad is seen as one of the most deserving steps to emphasize the problems that arise in the distribution of zakat. Among the zakat distribution issues presented in this study are the issues of non-Muslims as zakat recipients on the ground of da'wah, distribution of zakat through micro-credit and the distribution of zakat through zakat asnaf-riqab (slaves). This qualitative study was conducted by examining the ijtihad implemented by contemporary scholars on the issue of zakat distribution which has no clear law in the Qur'an and Hadith. The results of the study found that the method of ijtihad plays an important role in ensuring that new issues pertaining to the distribution of zakat to be solved. But it is necessary to follow the conditions laid down by the fuqaha so that it does not deviate from the maqasid of distribution of zakat itself.