In the Name of Allāh.
Following up on our previous discussion regarding Zakāt al-Fiṭr, it’s important to dispel the misconception that only specific foods given during the Prophet’s (ﷺ) time are permissible. The idea that foods like rice, beans, wheat, oats, corn, or other naturally storable items are unacceptable simply because they weren’t those specific items is inaccurate (as was established through the Ḥadīth of ‘Abdullāh Ibn ‘Umar [Raḍiyallāhu ‘Anhuma] discussed previously).
This is further supported by the words of Abū Sa’īd Al-Khudri (Raḍiyallāhu ‘Anhu) who stated: “We would give Zakatul-Fitr as a Sā’ā (portion) of food, or a portion of barley, or a portion of dates, or a portion of dry cheese, or a portion of raisins.” [Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī 1506, Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim 985]
Therefore, this implies that the staple food of the country where one resides is acceptable to give as Zakāt al-Fiṭr. However, it is crucial to provide the best quality food that is affordable, avoiding spoiled or inedible options. As Allāh warns: “O you who believe! Spend of the good things which you have (legally) earned, and of that which We have produced from the earth for you, and do not aim at that which is bad to spend from it…” [Sūrah Al-Baqarah (2): 267]
Furthermore, the responsibility of paying Zakāt al-Fiṭr rests upon financially capable Muslims. This individual should first provide for themselves, and then for those who are their dependents (who are only Muslims), according to their capacity. This includes one’s wife (or wives) and children, even newborns. It can also be given on behalf of close relatives (both young and old) if they are unable to provide for themselves. However, if they can give, they should do so, as it is an individual obligation upon every Muslim.
Importantly, those who are unable to give are eligible to receive Zakāt al-Fiṭr. It is fundamentally intended for the indigent – the poor and needy. Consequently, those who are not in need should not request or be given Zakāt al-Fiṭr. Moreover, it is not to be used to settle debts, seek the approval of others (instead of Allāh’s Pleasure), or express gratitude to someone.
I beseech Allāh to grant us the financial means to give Zakāt al-Fiṭr and bestow upon us a joyous and blessed ‘Eid. Aameen.
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