What Is Zakat al Fitr (Fitrana) | Complete Guide

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Zakat al Fitr, also known as Fitrana, is a type of charitable giving in Islam that is traditionally done at the end of the month of Ramadan. It is a mandatory payment made by every adult Muslim who has the means to do so and is typically given to the poor and needy.

Ibn `Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) reported

“The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) ordained Zakat al Fitr [Fitrana] to purify the fasting person from indecent words or actions and to provide food for the needy. It is accepted as Zakat for the person who gives it before the Eid prayer, but it is a mere Sadaqah for the one who gives it after the prayer.” [Abu Dawud and Ibn Majah]

Zakat al-Fitr in Islam

In Islam, Zakat al-Fitr is a charity given to the poor and needy at the end of Ramadan. The word “zakat” means purification and “al-Fitr” means breaking the fast. It is a duty for all Muslims who are able and have the means to do so. The amount that is given is usually based on the price of food.

Narrated by Jarir bin Abdullah,

“ I gave the pledge of allegiance to the Prophet for offering prayer perfectly giving Zakat and giving good advice to every Muslim”

Zakat al-Fitr is a way to clean up and thanks Allah for all of His good things. It is an act of worship that brings us closer to Allah. It is also a way of helping those who are less fortunate than us. By giving Zakat al-Fitr, we are reminded that all things belong to Allah and that we should share what He has given us with others.

The Purpose of Zakat al-Fitr

Zakat al Fitr is a charity that is given at the end of Ramadan. Its purpose is to purify oneself from any offensive act or speech and to help the poor and needy.

The purpose of Zakat ul Fitr is to cleanse one’s fasts while also assisting those in need. Most of the time, the amount given is equal to the cost of one meal or the same amount of money, which is usually set by the local government.

Who Should Pay Zakat al Fitr?

Zakat al-Fitr is a mandatory payment that is required of every adult Muslim who has the means to do so. This includes those who are financially able to provide for themselves and their families, as well as those who have savings or assets that exceed their basic needs.

In general, anyone who can afford to pay Zakat al Fitr should do so, regardless of their income level or occupation. It is also important to note that Zakat al Fitr should be paid by the head of the household on behalf of all members of the household, including children and dependents.

Narrated Abu Huraira:

Allah’s Apostle said, “Whoever is made wealthy by Allah and does not pay the Zakat of his wealth, then on the Day of Resurrection his wealth will be made like a bald-headed poisonous male snake with two black spots over the eyes.” The snake will encircle his neck and bite his cheeks, and” say, ‘I am your; health, I am your treasure.’ ” Then the Prophet recited the holy verses:– ‘Let not those who withhold . . .’ (to the end of the verse). (3.180).”

Who Is Eligible to Receive Zakat al-Fitr?

Zakat al-Fitr is a payment made during Ramadan that is given to the poor and needy. It is compulsory for all Muslims who are able to do so, and it must be given before the Eid al Fitr prayers.

Zakat al-Fitr can be given to any poor or needy person, regardless of whether they are Muslim or not. Zakat can also be given to mosques or Islamic charities.

How much is Zakat al-Fitr per person?

The amount of Zakat al-Fitr that is required to be paid per person is typically determined by the cost of one sa’ of staple food in the local area. According to Islamic scholars, as of 2021, the recommended amount is $10 per person, but this can vary based on location and cost of living. It is important to note that Zakat al Fitr is a charitable tax that is intended to help those in need, so it is important to consult with a local Islamic leader or organization to ensure that the funds are distributed in an appropriate manner.

When Should You Pay Zakat al-Fitr?

Zakat al-Fitr is a charity that is given at the end of the fasting month of Ramadan. It is a sunnah (optional practice) for every Muslim who is able to do so. The amount that is given is usually one sadaqah (a standard measure), which is equivalent to about 3 kilograms of rice.

The time for giving Zakat al-Fitr begins when the crescent moon of Shawwal is sighted and ends when the sun sets on the last day of Ramadan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. How much is Zakat al-Fitr?

Before the Eid al-Fitr prayer, the head of the household pays Zakat al-Fitr for each member of the family. Zakat al Fitr is about the price of one meal—estimated to be $15.

Q2. How much Zakat ul Fitr is there in Pakistan?

Alkhidmat Foundation Pakistan suggests that $4.93 be given to each member of the household—including children, adults, servants, etc.—before the day of Eid.

Q3. Is Zakat per person or per household?

Every member of a household, including children and the elderly, is required to pay, or have paid for them, Zakat al-Fitr, as long as the family has enough food or money to feed themselves. In the past, the Prophet (PBUH) said that one sa’ of staple food was equal to the amount of Zakat al Fitr.

Q4. What is the amount of Fitra per person?

The minimum amount due is the equivalent of about 2 kg of wheat flour, rice, or other staple foodstuffs per member of the household, including dependants, even if they do not live in the same house.

Conclusion

Zakat al-Fitr is a form of charity that is mandatory for all Muslims during the month of Ramadan. This act of giving cleans up our wealth, which makes it possible for less fortunate people to celebrate Eid and teaches us how important it is to give back to our communities. While it may seem like a small gesture, Zakat al Fitr can help make an enormous difference in people’s lives and can be used as an example to encourage others to give generously throughout the year.