Definition of Zakāt al-Fitr
Zakāt al-Fitr is a form of charity associated with the conclusion of the month of Ramadan. It was prescribed in the second year of Hijra, the same year fasting was established. Unlike other forms of Zakāt, it is obligatory for individuals rather than wealth, meaning it is not subject to the conditions of reaching a specific wealth threshold (niṣāb) or the passage of a lunar year (ḥawl).
Religious Objectives of Zakāt al-Fitr
1. Purification and Spiritual Cleansing
Zakāt al-Fitr helps purify a Muslim’s soul from greed and selfishness while fostering a spirit of generosity. This concept is emphasized in the Qur’an:
“Take, [O Muhammad], from their wealth a charity by which you purify them and sanctify them.” (At-Tawbah: 103)
2. Correction and Compensation
It serves to rectify any shortcomings committed during fasting, such as idle talk or minor transgressions. Some scholars compare it to the two prostrations of forgetfulness (sujūd as-sahw) in prayer, which compensate for its imperfections.
3. Solidarity and Aid for the Poor
It strengthens social cohesion by allowing wealthier members of society to support those in need, fostering a spirit of cooperation and mutual assistance.
4. Gratitude and Generosity
Paying Zakāt al-Fitr is a way for Muslims to express gratitude for having successfully completed the fast and performed good deeds during Ramadan. It also encourages the habit of giving and generosity.
5. Ensuring Joy for All
One of the primary objectives of Zakāt al-Fitr is to ensure that all Muslims, including the poor, can enjoy the Eid al-Fitr celebration. The joy of the festival should not be limited to the wealthy while the poor suffer from deprivation.
Legal Status and Who is Obliged to Pay
Zakāt al-Fitr is obligatory for every Muslim, as evidenced by the hadith of Ibn ʿUmar:
“The Messenger of Allah ﷺ prescribed Zakāt al-Fitr as one sāʿ of dates or barley for every free person and slave, male and female, young and old among the Muslims.” (Bukhārī)
- Every Muslim who has surplus wealth beyond their basic needs for the day and night of Eid must pay it.
- It applies to all—men, women, children, and elderly individuals.
- It does not apply to an unborn fetus unless born before dawn on the day of Eid al-Fitr.
- It must be paid on behalf of dependents, such as one’s wife or children.
- According to most scholars, it is not obligatory for a non-Muslim spouse, but some scholars, notably Abū Ḥanīfa, allow it in consideration of aiding the needy.
Amount of Zakāt al-Fitr
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ set its amount at one sāʿ (approximately 2.5 to 3 kg) of dates or barley. However, it can also be given in the form of other staple foods according to local dietary customs, such as rice or wheat.
Can it be Given in Cash?
Scholars differ on whether Zakāt al-Fitr can be given in money instead of food.
- Most traditional legal schools prefer payment in food.
- Some scholars, including Abū Ḥanīfa, ʿUmar ibn ʿAbd al-ʿAzīz, and Ḥasan al-Baṣrī, permitted cash payment.
- In modern times, particularly in Western countries, cash payments are often considered more practical and beneficial for the poor.
The European Council for Fatwa and Research has ruled that cash payment is permissible and, in many cases, preferable.
When Should Zakāt al-Fitr Be Paid?
- According to the Shāfiʿī school, it can be paid from the beginning of Ramadan.
- The Ḥanafī school allows payment from the start of the lunar year.
- The Mālikī school permits it to be paid two to three days before Eid.
- Currently, it is recommended to pay it in the last ten days of Ramadan to ensure it reaches the needy before the festival.
Distribution and Transferring Zakāt al-Fitr
A Muslim may appoint an individual or an organization to distribute Zakāt al-Fitr on their behalf, whether in their own country or abroad, provided it reaches the recipients on time.
Can Zakāt al-Fitr Be Sent to Another Country?
Zakāt al-Fitr should generally be distributed among the poor in the country where it is collected. However, exceptions exist:
- If there are no needy people in the local area.
- If there are more deserving individuals in another country.
- If the payer has poor relatives in another country.
Who Are the Recipients?
Some scholars believe it should be distributed among the eight categories of Zakāt recipients. However, the predominant opinion is that it is primarily for the poor and needy, so they can celebrate Eid with dignity.
Traditionally, it is not given to non-Muslims. However, some scholars, including Abū Ḥanīfa, allow it in Western countries as a gesture of goodwill and tolerance.
Summary
Zakāt al-Fitr is a significant religious and social act that serves to spiritually purify Muslims while ensuring that the poor can celebrate Eid al-Fitr with dignity. While its specific regulations vary among legal schools, its core objective—promoting solidarity and helping those in need—remains unchanged.
For this year, the Zakāt al-Fitr amount is 150 CZK per person.
It can be paid via bank transfer or deposited in the Zakāt donation box at the Černý Most mosque.
Bank details:
🔹 Account Number: 175834904 / 0300
