In the context of medieval Islamic taxation, what did Khums refer to?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
The correct answer is option 2 i.e. One-fifth of war booty and hidden wealth.
In medieval Islamic taxation, Khums referred to one-fifth of war booty and hidden wealth collected by the state. The word “Khums” itself means “one-fifth” in Arabic.
According to Islamic law, when wealth was obtained during battles, one-fifth of it was reserved for the ruler or the state for public welfare, religious purposes, and support of needy people, while the remaining share was distributed among the soldiers. Khums was also applied to treasure troves or valuable hidden wealth discovered underground. This system became important during medieval Islamic rule because it helped rulers maintain administration and military strength. Therefore, the correct answer is: One-fifth of war booty and hidden wealth.