Islam is a social religion. During times of celebration, we are tasked with the remembrance of Allah and being considerate of people in need. Zakat al-Fitr is an obligation upon us to provide one needy person with a meal. Fulfill your obligation ahead of Eid morning.
Abdullah Ibn ‘Umar said that the Prophet (peace be upon him) ordered the people to pay Zakat al Fitr before going to the Eid prayer.
The Prophet of Allah said, “The fasting of the month of fasting will be hanging between earth and heavens and it will not be raised up to the Divine Presence without paying the Zakat al-Fitr.”
Zakat al-Fitr, also known as the “charity of breaking the fast,” is a religious obligation for Muslims who are financially able to pay it. It is paid at the end of the holy month of Ramadan and is intended to help those in need celebrate the festival of Eid al-Fitr. But what exactly is Zakat al-Fitr used for?
Zakat al-Fitr is intended to provide basic necessities to those who are struggling to make ends meet, particularly during the festive season of Eid al-Fitr. The amount of Zakat al-Fitr varies depending on the region and the local cost of living, but it typically amounts to the cost of one meal per person in the household.
The primary purpose of Zakat al-Fitr is to provide food to those in need, so it is often used to purchase staple foods such as rice, flour, and oil. In some regions, Zakat al-Fitr is distributed as vouchers or in-kind assistance, allowing recipients to purchase the food they need themselves. This helps to support local businesses and ensure that those in need have access to fresh and nutritious food.
In addition to providing food assistance, Zakat al-Fitr is also used to support other basic needs of the community. This can include providing clothing, shelter, and medical care to those who are struggling. Zakat al-Fitr may also be used to support education and training programs that help to empower those in need and promote self-sufficiency.
Zakat al-Fitr is an important aspect of Muslim charitable giving, and it plays a vital role in supporting those in need. By providing basic necessities such as food, clothing, and shelter, Zakat al-Fitr helps to ensure that everyone can enjoy the festive season of Eid al-Fitr, regardless of their financial situation. It also helps to build strong and compassionate communities that prioritize the well-being of all members, particularly those who are most vulnerable.
If you are a Muslim who is financially able to pay Zakat al-Fitr, consider donating to a local organization or charity that is working to support those in need. Your donation can make a significant difference in the lives of those who are struggling, and it can help to build a more just and compassionate society for all.
Zakat al-Mal (commonly called “Zakat“) is due when a person’s wealth reaches the nisab amount and can be paid anytime during the year. Most people pay it during Ramadan. Zakat al-Fitr is paid by the head of the household for each member of the family, before Eid al-Fitr prayer. Zakat al-Fitr is about the price of one meal — estimated at $15 in 2023.
The heads of the houshold pay Zakat-al Fitr for their dependents. Otherwise, if there are no dependents, one pays for oneself.
It is compulsory for every member of a household, including children and babies to pay Zakat ul Fitr.
However, it is the parents or guardians who pay on behalf of their dependents.
Abdullah Ibn ‘Umar said that the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) ordered the people to pay Zakat al Fitr before going to the Eid prayer. (Bukhari)
Yes.
Both the Hanafi and the Shafi’i madhab allows for one to pay the Zakat al-Fitr before the 27th night of Ramadan.
The recipients of our Zakat al Fitr donations are the poor. The $15 we donate assists the poor and those in need with supplies of food and meals.
As agents, we take your donation to buy and distribute food on your behalf. In the past, Muslims would donate raw food supplies rather than money.
Now, with your money donation, we can fulfill your obligations and meet the needs of the poor.
Human Concern International is the oldest Muslim relief organization in Canada, fighting poverty for over 40 years.
We are a registered charity with the CRA. Charitable Registration No. 107497125 RR 0001
