Question
I say, and with God's success: It is a condition for the obligation of zakat on goods to have the intention of trade. What is the considered time for this intention?
Answer
The intention for trade is considered if it exists at the time of the cause of ownership; however, if one intends to trade after the cause of ownership has occurred, zakat is not obligatory on it with the intention of trade unless it is sold. It was narrated by Samurah ibn Jundab that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "He used to command us to give zakat on what is intended for sale" in Sunan Abi Dawood 2: 95, and he remained silent about it, and in Al-Mu'jam Al-Kabir 7: 253, and in Sunan Al-Bayhaqi Al-Kabir 4: 146. And Ibn Umar said: "There is no zakat on goods except what is for trade" in Sunan Al-Bayhaqi Al-Kabir 4: 147, and it was authenticated, and in Musannaf Ibn Abi Shaybah 2: 406, and Allah knows best.