The End of Ramadan and the meaning of Zakat Al Fitr in Islam

Rabat – “Take, [O, Muhammad], from their wealth a charity by which you purify them and cause them increase, and invoke [ Allah ‘s blessings] upon them.” God confirms in His holy book, Surat At-Tawbah, 109.

This act of great solidarity is not an optional charity but a divine duty that is obligatory for every Muslim, old and young, female and male.

Ibn ‘Umar said that the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) made Zakat al-Fitr compulsory on Muslim slave, free, male, female, old and young among the Muslims as follows: a measurement of barley or date “Saa” (approximately 2,035 kilograms), and ordered to give it before people go out to the morning prayer of Eid Al Fitr. Narrated by Al-Bukhari 1503.

The aim from this Zakat is to help the most deprived stop panhandling during the days of celebration.

In Morocco, according to the National council of Religious Affairs, the cash value of Zakat Alfitr is arranged between 5 to 6 dirhams in the rural areas and between 10 to 16 dirhams in cities.

In France, the cash value of zakat al fitr is 5 euros.

The value of Zakat Al Fitr is a matter of disagreement between Foukahas (Muslim scholars). Some Ulema prohibits Zakat cash, while others allow it.

The imam Abu Hanifa and his companions, as well as the fifth rightly guided caliph Omar Ibn Abdul Aziz authorized to give of zakat al-Fitr in cash.

The Supreme Scientific Council of Morocco has previously issued a fatwa on Zakaat al-Fitr, stating that it is permissible to pay Zakaat al-Fitr in cash.

Traditionally, the father or those in charge of the family are required to pay the Zakat for all family members, including those who are old if they have no income.