Zakat is one of Islam’s five pillars and is an obligatory act of charity that Muslims must undertake.
It’s an Arabic word that means “purification” or “cleansing” and refers to the act of donating a portion of one’s wealth to people in need.
Zakat al-fitr, also called fitrana, is a type of charity that is paid at the end of Ramadan.
It is a philanthropic contribution meant to assist those in need in celebrating Eid-el-fitr, the fast-breaking celebration that marks the conclusion of Ramadan.
Zakat al-fitr is a small amount of money that is given on behalf of each member of a Muslim household, including children and servants.
The amount is often equal to the cost of a local staple food, such as rice, wheat, or dates. The donation, which can be in cash or in kind, is usually sent to a local mosque or charity organization, which distributes the proceeds to those in need.
The goal is to assist those in need and to ensure that everyone can experience the blessings of Eid-el-fitr. It is a sort of social justice that promotes solidarity within the Muslim community while reducing poverty and inequality.
Zakat al-fitr differs from traditional zakat in various respects. While ordinary zakat is determined as a proportion of one’s wealth and is paid annually, zakat al-fitr is a one-time payment made at the end of Ramadan.
Muslims are encouraged to contribute liberally to those in need as part of the Ramadan and Eid-el-fitr celebrations and to help ensure that everyone can enjoy the blessings of Eid.
Writing by Saadatu Albashir