Giving regular charity, whether as zakat or sadaqah, is a cornerstone of every Muslim’s life.
One particular form of charity, zakat al-fitr, has a special significance with regards to Ramadan and one’s local Muslim community.
Scroll to read more about zakat al-fitr, how it differs from zakat al-mal and what giving zakat al-fitr means during Ramadan.
What is Zakat al-Fitr?
In Islam, there are two types of zakat: zakat al-fitr and zakat al-mal.
Zakat al-fitr is a special, obligatory alms paid by all Muslims at the end of each Ramadan. It differs from zakat al-mal in that zakat al-mal is only obligatory on sane Muslims adults who meet a threshold of wealth and can be given at any time throughout the year, whereas zakat al-fitr is not limited by age or wealth level and is restricted by time.
However, as Ramadan is considered an extremely blessed time, Muslims are also encouraged to give their zakat al-mal during the month if possible.
How is Zakat al-Fitr Used?
Zakat al-fitr is distributed to the poor on the morning of Eid al-Adha, in order to include the impoverished in the Muslim community’s celebration after fasting its holiest month.
For the one giving zakat al-fitr, this charity is a means for them to “seal” their Ramadan deeds with charity, cleanse any impurities from these deeds, and keep the poor at the forefront of their consciousness even during a time of great celebration.
Zakat al-fitr is a beautiful way for Musims of all socioeconomic backgrounds to connect and celebrate Eid together and will continue to be a means of great support for the downtrodden for years to come.