An Investigation into the Ownership of Khums in the Age of Occultation

There are two viewpoints about the possession of khums; one is the dominant view among Shia jurisprudents who believe that the person of Imam is the owner of Khums. The evidence for this viewpoint are based on the verse concerning Khums in Sura al Anfal and some traditions on this subject. The counterpoint of this view, is the opinion of some jurisconsults like Imam Khumeni who believe Imam is not the personal owner of Khums. Rather it is related to the office of Imamate and the Imam should use it for the promotion of Islam. The authors hold that the second view is consistent with the principle of justice. In other words, justice requires the authenticity of the second view.