Zakaat Al-Fitr: what, when, how much, and why?

Assalamu Alaykum members of Hadith of the Day!,

I sincerely hope everyone has had a blessed Ramadan so far, and that we can continue our worship and end off on a high note inshAllah.

As we get closer to the end of Ramadan and Eid, just wanted to write this post reminding everyone to pay Zakaat Al-Fitr before the end of Ramadan. Zakat Al-Fitr is obligatory upon every (capable) Muslim, whether male or female, old or young. The head of the household must pay this amount on behalf of his/her own self and on behalf of their spouse, children and even servants.

What it is:

Zakaat al-Fitr is an amount we give to charity and is given as food.  However, these days masjids and Islamic organizations collect money, and they buy food for poor people on your behalf.

When:

Needs to be given during Ramadan and before the Eid Prayer. There is one opinion that the food must reach the poor people before the Eid prayer. For this reason, if you are giving cash to a masjid or organization, it is in your best interest to give it as soon as possible so that they have enough time to purchase the food and distribute it.

How much:

The amount of Zakat Al-Fitr was fixed by the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him). It is about 5 pounds of wheat, flour, barley, dates or raisins. To give you an idea, these days the amount is equal to approximately US $5 per person.

My advice to everyone is to contact their local masjid. I’m sure every masjid has a fund for people to donate to, and inshAllah this fund will be used to purchase the food quantities.

Why:

Zakat Al-Fitr is obligatory upon every (capable) Muslim, whether male or female, old or young. The head of the household must pay this amount on behalf of his/her own self and on behalf of their spouse, children and even servants.

Various reasons are given by scholars for this obligatory charity. Some say that this charity helps the poor and needy and takes care of their needs in the month of Ramadan and also makes it possible for them to celebrate the `Eid festival with other Muslims. Other scholars maintain that this charity is meant to expiate (Kaffarah) for any mistakes or wrongdoings a person may have done during this blessed month. Ibn `Abbas said: The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) enjoined Zakat Al-Fitr so that those who fast are purified of their sins and the poor and needy people are enabled to arrange for their basic needs of food, clothing etc. Therefore, the Sadaqah (charity) of the person who gives before the `Eid prayer is the real Sadaqah, but if someone delays and gives it afterwards, his charity will be an ordinary one. (Reported by Abu Dawud and Ibn Majah.)

and Allah knows best.

m’salaama.

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