Ramadan 2010 - Ramadan Awareness Campaign

Jul 30, 2010

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12 days till Ramadan

Zakat

Article Index
Zakat
What is Zakat al-Fitr
The Purpose of Zakat al-Fitr
When Zakat al-Fitr is due
Time of payment
What type of food can be given and permissible substitutes
The calculation of Zakat al-Fitr
The amount of Sa
Its payment in money
References
All Pages

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Zakat In General

Different spellings of Zakat: Zakaat, Zakaah, Zakaat

Zakat is an Arabic word that literally means to 'grow' (in goodness) or 'purify' or 'foster' depending on the context it is used in.

It is often compared to the system of tithing and alms but unlike these older systems, it serves principally as the welfare contribution to poor and deprived people in the Muslim lands, although others may have a rightful share. It is the duty of the state not just to collect it; but to distribute it fairly as well. Zakat in a nutshell is the wealth (be it money or its equivalent from materials) that is given by the rich to the poor.

In Islam, Zakat is an obligation on every Muslim that is not poor. In Australia and other western countries, Zakat money is usually given to charities that distribute it to a large number of countries overseas where there are many poor people. There are two main types of Zakat:

Zakat on ones self: The money (or equalling substitute) that is given on behalf of yourself to a poor person. There is only one example of this type of Zakat and that is "Zakat al- Fitr" which means the "Zakat of Breaking the fast". This money is handed out at the conclusion of Ramadan to all the poor so that they can share in the spirit of the festival. (Zakat fitr or fitrah);
Zakat on ones wealth: The money (or equalling substitute) that is given as a sign of appreciation and gratitude to Allah (God) for what He has given you of wealth.

The following article will go into the details of Zakat Al-Fitr as it is the Zakat that relates to the end of Ramadan.

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