As Ramadan draws to a close and we prepare for the celebration of Eid, one important act of charity that holds great significance is Fitrana (also known as Zakat al-Fitr). This form of charity serves as a means of purification for the fasting person and ensures that even the poorest members of society can join in the celebrations of Eid.
In this blog post, we’ll delve into what Fitrana is, its importance, who should give it, when it should be given, and why it’s a key aspect of your Ramadan charity. Whether you’re familiar with Fitrana or are learning about it for the first time, read on to discover how this beautiful act of charity can bring blessings to both the giver and the receiver.
What is Fitrana (Zakat al-Fitr)?
Fitrana is a specific form of charity that is given towards the end of Ramadan before Eid al-Fitr. It is an obligation upon every Muslim who has the means to do so and is typically paid on behalf of each member of a household, including children and the elderly. The purpose of Fitrana is to purify the fast and provide for those who are less fortunate, ensuring that they, too, can partake in the joy of Eid celebrations without worry.
Unlike regular Zakat, which is given from a person’s wealth, Fitrana is a fixed amount determined by the cost of basic food items in your local area. It is designed to help those in need, enabling them to join in the happiness of Eid without being burdened by hunger or poverty.
Fitrana is more than just a form of charity—it holds a deep spiritual significance. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:
The Significance of Fitrana in Islam
“Fitrana is a purification for the fasting person from indecent acts and speech, and it is to provide food for the poor.” (Abu Dawud)
This charity serves two primary purposes:
- Purification of the Fast: While fasting during Ramadan is a spiritual act of devotion, it can still be marred by minor mistakes or shortcomings in our speech and behavior. Fitrana acts as a way to purify the fast, making it more acceptable to Allah.
- Supporting the Needy: Eid should be a time of joy for everyone, and Fitrana ensures that even the most impoverished members of society can enjoy the blessings of the day. By giving to those who are less fortunate, you’re helping them to participate in the celebrations and easing their burdens.
Who is Required to Pay Fitrana?
Fitrana is obligatory for every Muslim who has the financial means to give it. This includes:
- Head of the Household: The head of the household is responsible for paying Fitrana on behalf of their dependents, including children, spouses, elderly parents, and anyone under their care who is unable to give on their own.
- Adults with Sufficient Means: If an individual has sufficient wealth, they should pay Fitrana for themselves. The amount required is usually a small sum, equivalent to the cost of basic food items such as dates, barley, raisins, or wheat.
In cases where the household has children or other dependents, Fitrana must be given on their behalf as well. The giving of Fitrana ensures that no one is left behind in receiving the blessings of Eid.
When Should Fitrana be Paid?
Fitrana should be paid before the Eid prayer, ideally in the last 10 days of Ramadan or as soon as possible in the final days of the month. Many people drop it in the mosque bucket before Eid Prayer, however, it is important to note that Fitrana can be given a few days before Eid to ensure it reaches the needy in time. Some scholars recommend paying it before the last day of fasting in Ramadan to guarantee that it is distributed before the Eid prayer.
How Much Should You Pay for Fitrana?
The amount for Fitrana is typically determined by the cost of staple food items in your local community. The most common items used to calculate Fitrana include wheat, dates, raisins, and barley. This amount is generally set by local mosques or Islamic organisations and varies based on where you live and the price of these foods.
In many cases, Fitrana is around £5 to £10 per person, though the exact amount may vary depending on your region. It’s important to check with your local mosque or charity to confirm the specific amount for your area.
Our fitrana for Kashmir this year is £5 per person. You can make your donation here:
Why is Fitrana So Important?
Fitrana holds great importance for several reasons:
- Purification of Your Fast: Ramadan is a time of intense worship and devotion, but none of us are perfect. Fitrana helps purify the fast from any flaws or mistakes, allowing your fasting to be more complete and spiritually uplifting.
- Supporting Those in Need: Not everyone is fortunate enough to have food security, especially in underprivileged communities. By giving Fitrana, you’re directly helping those in need experience the joy of Eid by providing them with food and sustenance during a time of celebration.
- Fostering a Sense of Community: Giving Fitrana helps to strengthen the bonds of unity and community. Eid becomes a time where everyone, regardless of their financial status, comes together in joy and gratitude.
- Fulfilling an Obligation: Fitrana is a form of charity that is not just voluntary but is considered an obligation for those who can afford it. It is a way of ensuring that you contribute to the welfare of others, especially during this blessed month.
- Earn Rewards from Allah: Just like other forms of charity, Fitrana brings immense rewards from Allah. It is an act of worship, and Allah promises to multiply the rewards for those who give sincerely for His sake.
How to Give Fitrana
The easiest way to donate your fitrana this year is to do it through Kashmir Welfare Foundation. We are able to send your Fitrana to those most in need before Eid so they can utillise that money and have a good Eid just like we will be having at home too.
Fitrana is a powerful and beautiful act of charity that helps purify our fast, assist the needy, and bring about unity in the Muslim community. It is a reminder that as we celebrate Eid, we must also be mindful of the less fortunate, ensuring that no one is left behind in experiencing the joy and blessings of this blessed occasion.
As you prepare for Eid, don’t forget to calculate and pay your Fitrana. Not only will it purify your fast, but it will also allow you to contribute to the happiness of others, making this Eid a truly special and meaningful occasion for everyone.
May Allah accept your fasting, your charity, and your efforts to help those in need. Ameen.
