“Zakat vs Fitra: Understanding the Differences and Importance of Islamic Charity”
Bismillah-ir-Rahman-ir-Rahim.
بِسْمِ ٱللَّٰهِ ٱلرَّحْمَٰنِ ٱلرَّحِيمِ
(“in the name of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful”.)
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
Assalamu’alaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh .
السَّلاَمُ عَلَيْكُمْ وَرَحْمَةُ اللهِ وَبَرَكَاتُهُ .
May the peace, mercy, and blessings of Allah be with you.
Ramadan Kareem!!
Zakaat and Fitra are two important pillars of Islam that involve giving to the less fortunate members of society. These two practices are often mentioned together in Islamic literature as they share many similarities. In this essay, we will explore the meanings of Zakaat and Fitra, their significance in Islam, and relevant Quranic verses and Hadiths.
Zakaat:
Zakaat is an obligatory charity that Muslims are required to pay annually. The word Zakaat is derived from the Arabic word “Zakat” which means “to purify” or “to make something grow.” In Islam, Zakaat is considered a means of purification and growth for both the giver and the receiver.
The concept of Zakaat is mentioned frequently in the Quran. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (SWT) says, “And establish prayer and give Zakaat, and whatever good you put forward for yourselves – you will find it with Allah. Indeed, Allah of what you do, is Seeing.” (2:110) This verse highlights the importance of Zakaat as an act of worship and reminds Muslims that Allah (SWT) is aware of their actions.
In another verse, Allah (SWT) commands Muslims to give Zakaat to those in need, “And those within whose wealth is a known right for the petitioner and the deprived.” (70:24-25) This verse emphasizes the importance of Zakaat as a means of helping those who are less fortunate.
In addition to Quranic verses, there are several Hadiths that discuss the significance of Zakaat. One such Hadith is narrated by Abu Huraira, where the Prophet (PBUH) said, “Whoever pays the Zakaat on his wealth, will have its evil removed from him.” (Bukhari)
Another Hadith narrated by Abu Huraira states, “The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) enjoined Zakaat on horses, camels, sheep, cows, and goats. For every forty sheep, one sheep should be given as Zakaat.” (Muslim)
These Hadiths show that Zakaat is not just an act of charity, but also a means of seeking Allah’s forgiveness and protection from evil.
Fitra:
Fitra is a special charity that Muslims are required to give during the month of Ramadan, before Eid-ul-Fitr. The word Fitra is derived from the Arabic word “Fatra” which means “to break the fast.” The purpose of Fitra is to ensure that even the poorest members of society can celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr with joy and happiness.
The concept of Fitra is mentioned in the Hadith narrated by Ibn Umar, where the Prophet (PBUH) said, “The fasting of Ramadan remains hanging between the heavens and the earth until the fitra is paid.” (Tirmidhi)
In another Hadith narrated by Abu Sa’eed al-Khudri, the Prophet (PBUH) said, “Give Sadaqah (charity) on your fast-breaking (iftar) meal.” (Ibn Majah)
These Hadiths emphasize the importance of Fitra as a means of completing the act of fasting and ensuring that everyone can enjoy the festivities of Eid-ul-Fitr.
Zakaat and Fitra are two important practices in Islam that emphasize the importance of giving to those who are less fortunate. Zakaat is an obligatory charity that Muslims are required to pay annually, while Fitra is a special charity that is given before Eid-ul-Fitr. The Quranic verses and Hadiths mentioned in this essay highlight the significance of these practices and their role in Islam as acts of worship and purification.
– a blog by Ali Raza