In our deen, we have Zakat of money, gold, silver, livestock but Zakatul Fitr is unique in that it is incumbent upon Muslims be they male or female, young or old, slaves or free.
It is a measure of staple food given to the needy at the end of Ramadhan but BEFORE EID.
A Sa’a of food equals 4 Mudd(handfuls) of grain, legumes, dried dates etc is distributed to the poor. Heads of families can pay for themselves then their family. Individuals can pay for themselves.
It is against the Sunnah to use money. This is based on evidences such as:
– Hadith of Ibn Umar, Ibn Abbas and Abu Sa’eed al Khudri: The Prophet legislated a Sa’a of date, barley, wheat and dry yoghurt.[Bukhari, Muslim]
-Hadith of Ibn Abbas, the Prophet made Zakaatul Fitr as purification for the fasting Muslims and FOOD for the poor. [Ibn Majah, Abu Dawud]
In Allah’s wisdom, this commandment ensures food goes round the community and everyone can celebrate without having to beg. It fosters love among family and neighbours and ensures social justice.
Dear brother and sister, kindly pay your Zakatul fitr with the staple in your locality and ensure you do so before Eid.
P.S.
The Sultan of Sokoto has announced that Friday the 17th of July, 2015 is Eid-l-Fitr 1436A.H as the moon has been sighted in Sokoto.
Eid Mubarak! Taqabalallah mina wa minkum (May Allah accept it from us and from you.)
Amin
Oumissa Inspire 