❖ Ruling on Imam and Trustee Granting Concessions in Mosque Property
Derived from: “Ahkam wa Masail in the Light of Qur’an and Hadith”, Volume 02
❖ Question
Zaid serves as both imam and trustee (mutawalli) of a mosque. The mosque owns some property, such as shops, which generate rental income. A poor man named Amr approached Zaid and, citing his financial hardship, requested a concession in rent, which Zaid granted—despite the fact that other individuals were willing to pay a higher rent.
Does Zaid have the right to grant such a concession in this case?
❖ Answer
According to Shar‘i principles and based on the findings of research:
☞ Zaid has the right to grant concessions in his personal property as he pleases.
❌ However, in the case of waqf (endowed) property—such as mosque-owned shops or land—Zaid is not permitted to offer concessions or discounts based on personal discretion, because:
- He is merely a trustee and guardian (amīn) of the waqf property.
- Waqf property is not personal wealth; it is designated for the welfare of the mosque and the Muslim community.
- Granting concessions based on sympathy, while ignoring higher offers, constitutes mismanagement of trust and can result in financial loss to the mosque.
📖 (Referenced from: Ahl-e-Hadith Sohadra, Volume 4, Issue No. 7)
