Do we give students of knowledge from the zakah so they can devote themselves to seeking knowledge?

The questioner : If there are students of knowledge who are capable of earning a living, a person can, for example, work and obtain what sustains his life, but he wants to devote himself to seeking knowledge. So, do we give him from the zakah so he can devote himself to seeking knowledge?

The Shaykh : The answer is yes, we give him, and this is correct.

The questioner : Now, do we buy books from the zakah for the library that students of knowledge frequent?

The Shaykh : According to the view that it is permissible to buy weapons for the mujahideen, it is permissible to buy books for students of knowledge. However, if we say that it is not permissible to buy weapons with it, then it is not permissible to buy books with it.