Is it permissible for a daughter to pay zakat al-fitr on behalf of her father?

In a Nutshell: Yes, a daughter can pay Zakat al-Fitr on behalf of her father under certain circumstances. This obligation typically falls on the head of the household, but daughters can fulfill it for their fathers if they have sufficient means and their fathers meet the eligibility criteria. Table of Contents Introduction Background and Context Evidences Head of Household vs. Dependency Daughter's Financial Capacity Misconceptions FAQs (Zakat al-Fitr) Conclusion Introduction Zakat al-Fitr is a wajib (mandatory) charity given at the end of Ramadan to purify one's fast and provide for the less fortunate. The Prophet (pbuh) emphasized its importance, stating: Whoever pays Zakat al-Fitr before the Eid prayer, it is considered Zakat accepted and whoever pays it after the Eid prayer, it is considered charity. (Sahih Bukhari) This answer explores whether a daughter can fulfill this obligation on behalf of her father. Traditionally, the head of the household is responsible for Zakat al-Fitr for themselves and their dependents. However, there are situations where a daughter may take on this responsibility. Evidences While the Quran does not explicitly mention Zakat al-Fitr, hadiths establish its obligation and those who must pay it. Here, we will focus on hadiths regarding dependents: Narrated Ibn 'Umar (ra): The Messenger of Allah (pbuh) enjoined Zakat al-Fitr on every Muslim, free or enslaved, male or female, young or old: one Sa' of dates or one Sa' of barley.(Sahih Bukhari) This hadith indicates the universality of Zakat al-Fitr, encompassing dependents like children and wives. Narrated Abu Said Al-Khudri (ra): The Messenger of Allah (pbuh) obligated Zakat al-Fitr as a purification for the one who fasts from Ramadan and a provision for the poor. It is to be paid from dates, barley, raisins, or dried cheese. One Safor every free person, slave, male or female, young or old. (Sahih Bukhari) This hadith reinforces the obligation for dependents and specifies the types of acceptable Zakat al-Fitr staples. These hadiths establish that Zakat al-Fitr is obligatory for dependents, laying the groundwork for the possibility of a daughter fulfilling this duty on her father's behalf. Permissibility of Daughter paying Zakat al-Fitr Head of Household vs. Dependency Traditionally, the head of the household, typically the father or husband, is responsible for providing for the family and fulfilling their religious obligations, including Zakat al-Fitr. This stems from the Quranic verse: Men are the protectors and maintainers of women, because Allah has given them one fadl (meaning kelebihan - Arabic for excess or advantage) over another and because they spend out of their wealth.(Quran 4:34) However, scholars have allowed exceptions based on specific circumstances. If the head of the household is unable to fulfill their obligations due to financial hardship, illness, or other reasons, dependents can take on this responsibility. Daughter's Financial Capacity A daughter can pay Zakat al-Fitr for her father only if she meets certain criteria: Financial Means: She must have sufficient wealth exceeding her own needs and obligations, including her personal Zakat al-Fitr. Imam Nawawi (ra), a prominent Shafi'i scholar, states: The condition for the validity of Zakat al-Fitr is that the giver possesses a surplus of wealth beyond his or her own basic needs.(Al-Majmu', Ibn Nawawi) Intention: Her intention should be to fulfill the obligation of Zakat al-Fitr for her father. Misconceptions Only the head of the household can pay Zakat al-Fitr. As discussed, while the head of household is typically responsible, daughters can fulfill this obligation under specific circumstances. A daughter cannot pay for her father's obligations. Financial obligations can be fulfilled by children for their parents under certain conditions, including Zakat al-Fitr if the daughter has sufficient means and her father is unable. Disrespecting the father's role as the provider Some might argue that a daughter paying Zakat al-Fitr on behalf of her father disregards his role as provider, undermining his authority. However, supporting one's parents in times of hardship aligns with Islamic teachings of kindness and respect, as exemplified in the Quran: And your Lord has decreed that you not worship except Him and to parents, good treatment.(Quran 17:23) The daughter might not have full knowledge of her father's financial situation There may be concerns that the daughter is unaware of her father's true financial situation. To address this, open communication and transparency within the family regarding finances are highly encouraged. FAQs (Zakat al-Fitr) Can a daughter pay Zakat al-Fitr for other family members? Yes, provided she has sufficient means, a daughter can pay Zakat al-Fitr for immediate family members including siblings, grandparents, or others who are dependent on her father. What if the daughter and father have different opinions on the type of Zakat al-Fitr staple? It's best to respect the father's preference if he is able to make a choice. However, if he is not, the daughter can use her judgment based on the traditionally accepted staples of dates, barley, raisins, or dried cheese. Conclusion In accordance with the teachings of Islam, a daughter can pay Zakat al-Fitr on behalf of her father if she fulfills specific conditions. Her financial independence and her father's inability to meet the obligation are primary considerations. This act embodies the Islamic values of compassion, family responsibility and supporting those in need. Open communication and understanding within the family can help address potential concerns and ensure the smooth fulfillment of this important obligation. Ultimately, this act of generosity can bring blessings to both the daughter and her father.