Zakat al Fitr (or Zakat al-Fitr) is an obligatory form of charity that every Muslim must give before the Eid al-Fitr prayer, marking the end of the month of Ramadan. It is intended to purify the fasting person from mistakes or wrongdoings committed during the month of fasting and to help those in need, so they can also celebrate the Eid festival.
The hadith supporting these objectives is narrated by Abu Dawood: “The Prophet (peace be upon him) ordered the charity of breaking the fast to purify the soul from idle talk and indecent speech and to feed the poor.“
Who Must Pay Zakat al-Fitr?
The head of the family must pay Zakat al-Fitr for themselves as well as for anyone under their care, even for a baby. Finally, a person who cannot afford food on the day of Eid is not required to pay Zakat al-Fitr. There is no condition of wealth or nisab (minimum amount of wealth) like there is for Zakat al-Mal (obligatory charity).
How to Pay Zakat al-Fitr?
Zakat al-Fitr is generally calculated in terms of basic food, such as dates, barley, rice, or wheat. The exact amount may vary depending on the country or religious authorities, but it is often equivalent to the amount of food needed to feed one person for a day. Alternatively, it can be given in cash, according to the amount set by local authorities.
Some legal schools of thought believe that Zakat al-Fitr can be given in cash. This is the practice that is most common in the Muslim world today. The goal is to fulfill the purpose of this charity, as mentioned in the hadith: “Spare the poor from resorting to begging on the day of Eid.” The result is to simply provide the basic needs for the poor.
Additionally, the foods used in the time of the Prophet are replaced today according to the region. For example, rice or pasta may be given.
When to Pay Zakat al-Fitr?
Zakat al-Fitr must be paid before the Eid prayer. This is mentioned in two hadiths. Narrated by Muslim and Bukhari: “… and he (the Prophet) ordered it to be given before the people go out for the prayer.” It is further clarified in the hadith narrated by Abu Dawood:
“… Whoever gives it before the Eid prayer, it will be accepted as Zakat al-Fitr. However, if it is given after the prayer, it will be considered a regular charity (sadaqa).”
If a person has not paid their Zakat al-Fitr, the believer remains indebted and must still pay it, even after the Eid prayer. According to different legal schools of thought, it can be paid at the beginning of the month of Ramadan or a few days before the end of Ramadan (one or two days). Giving Zakat al-Fitr at a blessed and important time is highly recommended.
