Zakat-Ul-Fithr is an act of charity, mandated by Islam to be given during the month of Ramadan. Unlike regular Zakat which can be given at any time of year, Zakat-Ul-Fithr has to be given out between a few days before the Eid-Ul-Fithr and at the latest, before the Eid prayer on Eid-Ul-Fithr, otherwise it is not valid. Zakat-Ul-Fithr is compulsory or wajib on all Muslims, irrespective of gender, age, social and economic standing, as long as they have sufficient means to do so. It is obligatory to give Zakat-Ul-Fithr on behalf of financial dependants as well as yourself. Recipients of this charity are the same people who are eligible for regular Zakat.
Unlike regular Zakat, Zakat-Ul-Fithr has a flat rate of one Sa’ of dried rations per Muslim. One Sa’ is about two “cupped hands” worth of grain. For those in the metric system, this is about 2.5 to 3.0 kilograms worth of dried rations. Some scholars say that it is permissible to give out cash equivalent of the rations, but despite money being available during the Prophet (S.A.W) ‘s time he always gave out food. Therefore it is a Sunnah to give rations instead of money. Grains, dried lentils, dried meats, dried fruit and cheeses are all good items to give away. It is important that the object of charity is some form of food, or something that can be converted to food, like cash. Therefore clothes, books, and other things that are not food cannot be included.
The main motivation behind Zakat-Ul-Fithr is the distribution of wealth, so that even the poor can enjoy a good Eid, and at the least feed themselves on the blessed day. That is why the timing of Zakat-Ul-Fithr is important. Giving the rations after the Eid prayer, may prevent the recipient from using the rations, and giving the charity well ahead of Eid-Ul-Fithr may result in spoilage.
Therefore dear Saracen, if you have not started to give out your share of Zakat-Ul-Fithr, these final days of Ramazan are a good time to do so. Leaving it for the last minute may see this obligation upon you burdening your festive plans, so make arrangements to get it out of the way.
May God provide you with plenty!
CONVERSATION