All Things Zakat al-Fitr
Introduction to Zakat al-Fitr
Zakat al-Fitr is ordained in Islam as a means of purifying the fasting individual from any sins and to compensate for any shortcomings or neglect during the fasting period. It allows the fasting person to conclude Ramadan with an act of charity, hoping for acceptance from Allah, the Exalted. Moreover, it aims to provide for the poor, ensuring they do not need to ask for help or necessities on Eid day.
Prophetic Guidance on Zakat al-Fitr
As Prophet Muhammad, ﷺ, instructed: “Enrich them on this day” [Reported by Al-Daraqutni].
Ibn Abbas, may Allah be pleased with them both, narrated: “The Messenger of Allah ﷺ ordained Zakat al-Fitr as a purification for the fasting person from idle talk and obscenities, and as food for the needy.” [Reported by Abu Dawood]
Obligatory Recipients
Zakat al-Fitr is mandatory for every Muslim: male or female, adult or child, rich or poor, as long as they have sufficient provisions beyond their basic needs for themselves and their dependents for Eid day and its night.
The Muslim is required to pay it on behalf of themselves, their spouse, and anyone they are obligated to support, such as minor and adult children under their care, and impoverished parents, linking Zakat al-Fitr directly to the obligation of support.
Delegation of Payment
It is permissible for a Muslim to pay Zakat al-Fitr personally or to delegate someone else to pay it on their behalf.
Place of Payment
Primarily, Zakat al-Fitr should be distributed in the payer’s country of residence since it is related to the individuals themselves. However, transferring it to another country, such as the payer’s country of origin, especially if they are expatriates, is allowed when it serves a greater benefit or in the absence of the needy in their place of residence.
Timing of Payment
It is recommended to distribute Zakat al-Fitr after the sunset of the last day of Ramadan and before the Eid al-Fitr prayer, although it can be distributed from the beginning of Ramadan until the sunset of Eid day.
Monetary Value
While the principal form of Zakat al-Fitr is food, distributing its equivalent value in money is permissible. According to the North American Fiqh Council, Zakat al-Fitr this year is set at ten dollars, always considering the best interest of the needy.
The amount of Zakat al-Fitr is one Sa’ of the most common food that people consume in their country, such as wheat, rice, beans, lentils, fava beans, raisins, and other staples;
According to a hadith from Ibn Umar, may Allah be pleased with them: “The Messenger of Allah ﷺ ordained Zakat al-Fitr as one Sa’ of dates or one Sa’ of barley on every slave and free person, male and female, young and old among the Muslims, and he instructed that it be paid before the people go out to the Eid prayer.” [Agreed upon].
A Sa’ of wheat is equivalent to approximately two kilograms and forty grams (2.04 kg).
As for other items from which Zakat can be given, such as rice, beans, raisins, etc., the average Sa’ for these is approximately two and a half kilograms (2.5 kg).
Expenditures
Zakat al-Fitr is designated for the poor and the needy, following the financial expenditures outlined by Allah Almighty in the Quran: “Charities are for the poor, the needy, those employed to collect [the funds], and for bringing hearts together [for Islam], for freeing captives [or slaves], for those in debt, in the cause of Allah, and for the [stranded] traveler – an obligation [imposed] by Allah. And Allah is Knowing and Wise.”
Considerations for Payment
It’s crucial to remember that Zakat al-Fitr aims at more than just a financial transaction; it’s an act of worship and social welfare, reflecting the spirit of communal support and care in Islam. The determination of whether to pay in kind (with food) or with money should be guided by what is more beneficial for the needy in the specific context. The allowance to pay the equivalent value in money takes into consideration ease for the payer and the changing dynamics of need and consumption.
The Wisdom Behind Zakat al-Fitr
Zakat al-Fitr serves multiple wisdoms and purposes. It cleanses the one who fasts from any indecent act or speech and helps compensate for any imperfections in one’s fast. It’s a means for the Muslims to earn forgiveness from Allah for any shortcomings in their fast. Moreover, it brings joy and allows for the needy to celebrate the day of Eid without worrying about their sustenance.
Reflection and Gratitude
As we fulfill this obligation, it’s a moment to reflect on the blessings we have and the importance of sharing them with those less fortunate. It’s an act that solidifies the brotherhood and sisterhood among Muslims, fostering a sense of unity and collective responsibility towards each other’s well-being.
Conclusion
Zakat al-Fitr is a beautiful practice that embodies the values of empathy, generosity, and communal support. It reminds us of the broader social obligations we hold towards each other, especially the less fortunate. As we approach Eid, let’s fulfill this duty with a heart full of gratitude and hope for acceptance from Allah, the Most High. May our acts of charity and devotion be a means of purification for us and bring us closer to our Creator.
Suhaib Webb
SWISS: join.suhaibwebb.com