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Rabat – Morocco’s High Council of Ulemas announced on Friday setting the cash value of Zakat Al Fitr at MAD 20 ($1.98) this year. Known as “Sadaqat Al Fitr,” Zakat Al Fitr is a mandatory charitable donation that Muslims are required to give before the end of the holy month of Ramadan.
In a statement, the council noted that Zakat Al Fitr is given in the form of staple food items that are commonly consumed by the locals of a country or region, such as wheat, barley, or other similar items.
Citing the teaching of the prophet Mohammed, the council indicated that the recommended amount is set at around 2.5 kilograms of grain or flour per person.
In addition, the council recommended people give the zakat two or three days ahead of Eid Al Fitr, which is expected to take place on April 22. It added that “its [the wheat or grain] value may be given in cash in dirhams for those who prefer that.”
Those who wish to donate more than the set value can do so, noted the statement, citing a verse from Surah Al Baqarah which says: “Whoever voluntarily does more good than is required will find it better for him.”
The responsibility of fulfilling this obligation is typically left to the head of the family, who is responsible for the financial affairs of the household. They are required to pay Zakat Al Fitr for all family members living under their roof, including children.
Zakat Al Fitr is intended for the poor and needy people, to ensure that all Muslims are able to participate in the Eid Al Fitr celebrations. Only adult Muslims who possess the minimum amount of wealth, called Nisab in Islam, are required to pay the religious obligation.
Read also: Eid Al Fitr in Morocco: Joyful Customs and Traditions
