Ruling on the trustee of zakah taking money without the owner's permission

Q: I was poor and worked for some of the wealthy. Due to my trustworthiness, he placed his trust in me and gave me a large amount of his zakah to distribute to the poor in the area where we live. I found myself in need of this amount and took it for myself. Is there a sin on me for this? I am poor and need this amount, and this wealthy man gives much of his money to the poor in this area. I hope for an answer?

A: This action of yours is not permissible; rather, it is a betrayal of trust. It is obligatory for you to repent to Allah (Glorified and Exalted is He), to compensate for the money, and to deliver it to the poor Muslims who are eligible for zakah, with the intention that it is on behalf of the man who appointed you as his agent. If such a thing happens, you should tell him and say to him: "I am poor, so help me from your zakah."