ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Khums

Khums is a word that means one-fifth, or 20 percent. In some religions, it refers to a special kind of tax or donation that people give.

Imagine you find a big pile of candy. You really like the candy, but you know you should share it with others. So you decide to give one-fifth of the candy to your friends. This means that for every five pieces of candy you have, you give one piece away.

In some religions, people believe that they should give one-fifth of their money or property to their religious leaders or to charity. This is called khums. The money or property that is given away can be used to help people who are poor or in need.

Sometimes people get confused about how much khums they should give. But it's really just like the candy example - for every five dollars you have, you give one dollar. So if you have $20, you would give $4.

Giving khums is a way to help others and be generous. It can also make you feel good that you are doing something kind for others.
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