Zakat al Fitr is an important Islamic obligation for Muslims, which is usually paid at the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting. It is a form of charity that is given to the poor and needy, and it is also known as Sadaqah al Fitr. The payment of Zakat al Fitr is a significant act of worship and serves as a means of purification for those who have fasted during Ramadan.
What is Zakat Al Fitr?
Zakat al-Fitr, also known as Fitrana, is an obligatory charity given by Muslims before the Eid al-Fitr prayer that marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan. It is a specific amount of food or money given to help the poor and needy members of the community celebrate the festival of Eid with joy and happiness.
How much is Zakat-ul-Fitr per person?
The amount of Zakat-ul-Fitr per person is equal to one Sa’ of food, which is equivalent to approximately 2.5 to 3 kg of staple food items in the local market. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) instructed that this amount of food be given on behalf of every Muslim, including children and adults, as a means of purification and providing assistance to those in need.
Alternatively, some communities and organizations may determine a monetary value equivalent to the cost of one Sa’ of food in their local market, which can be given as Zakat-ul-Fitr instead of food. It is important to note that the exact amount of Zakat-ul-Fitr may vary depending on the local cost of living and the availability of food items in the area.
What is Fitrana and what is its meaning?
“The Prophet (PBUH) enjoined the payment of one Sa’ of dates or one Sa’ of barley as Zakat ul Fitr on every Muslim slave or free, male or female, young or old, and he ordered that it be paid before the people went out to offer the Eid prayer.” – (Bukhari)
How much is Fitrana 2023?
Fitrana amount for 2023 is £5 per person, which is paid by the head of the household on behalf of every member of the household, including children. It is important to note that the exact amount of Fitrana may vary depending on the local cost of living and the availability of food items in the area, and different Islamic centers and organizations may announce different Fitrana amounts based on their own calculations and guidelines. However, it is always advisable to consult with a local Islamic center or organization for the current year’s Fitrana amount.
When is the Fitrana 2022 UK payment due?
As Fitrana or Zakat-ul-Fitr is given before the Eid prayers commence at the start of Eid al-Fitr, the payment for Fitrana 2023 in the UK will be due before the Eid al-Fitr prayer, which will take place on or around April 23, 2023, depending on the sighting of the moon.
Who is it obligatory on to pay Fitrana (Zakat ul Fitr)?
It is obligatory for every Muslim who possesses the minimum amount of wealth for a year to pay Fitrana or Zakat-ul-Fitr. This includes all adults, children, and even newborns in the family. The amount of wealth needed to make a person liable for Zakat-ul-Fitr is the same as that for Zakat-ul-Mal, which is referred to as Nisab.
The Nisab is calculated based on the value of gold or silver, and if a person’s wealth exceeds this minimum threshold, then they are required to pay Zakat-ul-Mal and Fitrana. However, Fitrana is separate from Zakat-ul-Mal and is paid once a year, specifically before the Eid al-Fitr prayer that marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan. The purpose of Fitrana is to help the poor and needy members of the community to celebrate the festival of Eid with joy and happiness.
Importance and Benefits of Paying Zakat al Fitr
Paying Zakat al Fitr is an important act of worship that has many benefits. It purifies the soul, helps the needy, and strengthens the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood in the Muslim community. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of giving to those who are less fortunate, and it teaches us to be grateful for the blessings we have been given. By paying Zakat al Fitr, Muslims fulfill one of the fundamental obligations of their faith and contribute to the welfare of society.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Zakat al Fitr is an important Islamic obligation that is mandatory for every Muslim who possesses the means to pay it. It is a form of purification, an act of worship, and a means of helping the poor and needy. The amount of Zakat al Fitr is fixed and it must be paid before Eid al-Fitr. Paying Zakat al Fitr has many benefits and it is an important way for Muslims to contribute to the welfare of society.