Who should receive zakat Alfitr in Islam?

In a Nutshell: Zakat al-Fitr, a mandatory charitable donation of staple food, purifies the fasting person and provides sustenance to the less fortunate during Eid al-Fitr. While the majority of scholars allow distribution to the eight categories of Zakat recipients, some restrict it solely to the poor and needy. This answer explores the evidences and scholarly opinions to determine who qualifies to receive Zakat al-Fitr. Table of Contents Introduction Background and Context Evidences Who Should Receive Zakat al-Fitr FAQs on Zakat al-Fitr Conclusion Introduction Zakat al-Fitr, also known as Fitrana, is a wajib (obligatory) charity given at the end of Ramadan. It signifies the completion of the fast and expresses gratitude to Allah (swt). Distributing Zakat al-Fitr ensures that everyone in the community can celebrate Eid al-Fitr with joy and dignity. Understanding who is eligible to receive this charity is crucial for fulfilling its purpose. Evidences There are no verses directly mentioning Zakat al-Fitr, but several verses emphasize the importance of charity and helping those in need, particularly during Ramadan and the festive season (e.g., Al-Baqarah 2:177, Al-Ma'un 107: 1-7). Narrated by Ibn 'Abbas (ra): The Messenger of Allah (saw) obligated Zakat al-Fitr as a purification for the one who fasts from idle talk and obscene language and to provide sustenance for the needy (Sahih Bukhari). Narrated by Ibn 'Umar (ra): The Messenger of Allah (saw) enjoined the giving of Fitr (charity) on every free Muslim slave, male or female, young or old and he ordered that it be given before the Eid prayer (Sahih Bukhari). Hadiths also mention the eight categories of Zakat recipients deserving charity (Sahih al-Bukhari, Sahih Muslim). The majority scholars (Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi'i) hold that Zakat al-Fitr can be distributed among all eight categories of Zakat recipients mentioned in the Quran (At-Tawbah 9:60). Hanbali scholars prioritize the poor and needy, arguing that Zakat al-Fitr specifically aims to alleviate their hardship during Eid al-Fitr. Who Should Receive Zakat al-Fitr Zakat al-Fitr serves two primary purposes: Purification:It purifies the fasting person from any shortcomings during Ramadan, such as idle talk or breaking the fast unintentionally. Providing Sustenance:It ensures that those less fortunate can also celebrate Eid al-Fitr with joy and have sufficient food for the festive days. The eight categories of Zakat recipients encompass a broad range of individuals facing financial hardship, including the poor, the needy, those in debt, travelers and recent converts. Distributing Zakat al-Fitr among them can alleviate their struggles and promote social solidarity within the Muslim community. Some scholars prioritize the poor and needy based on the Hadith mentioning them specifically for Zakat al-Fitr. However, the majority view argues that Zakat al-Fitr fulfills a broader purpose of social support and community well-being, aligning with the overall objectives of Zakat. FAQs on Zakat al-Fitr Can Zakat al-Fitr be given in the form of money? Yes, in contemporary times, many scholars allow Zakat al-Fitr to be paid in the form of money equivalent to the prevailing market price of staple foods like wheat, barley, or dates. This facilitates distribution and ensures recipients can purchase their preferred food items. However, some scholars maintain the traditional practice of distributing actual food items. Local scholars can advise on the most appropriate method in a specific context. Who is responsible for paying Zakat al-Fitr on behalf of dependents? The head of the household, typically the father or guardian, is responsible for paying Zakat al-Fitr for themselves and their dependents, including minor children, elderly parents and disabled spouse. This ensures that everyone in the household benefits from the spiritual reward of Zakat al-Fitr and contributes to supporting those in need. What is the deadline for distributing Zakat al-Fitr? The ideal time for distributing Zakat al-Fitr is before the Eid prayer on the morning of Eid al-Fitr. This allows recipients to utilize the donation for their Eid celebrations. However, some scholars permit distribution a day or two before Eid if necessary. It is discouraged to delay distribution beyond the start of Eid al-Fitr. Conclusion Zakat al-Fitr is a unique form of charity that combines spiritual purification with social welfare. Distributing Zakat al-Fitr allows Muslims to express gratitude for completing Ramadan, contribute to social justice and strengthen the bonds of brotherhood within the community. The majority of scholars allow distribution among the eight categories of Zakat recipients, catering to a broader range of needs. While some prioritize the poor and needy, the overall objective is to alleviate hardship and promote social solidarity.