Zakat can be given to those in need throughout the year.
When a wealthy Muslim provides Zakat, it’s typically done discreetly, without public announcement.
In addition to fasting, performing namaz, and reciting the Quran, contributing Zakat and Zakat al-Fitr holds significant importance during Ramadan. Zakat stands as one of the fundamental pillars of Islam. Every Muslim must give Fitra (also known as Zakat al-fitr) and Zakat before Eid prayers during the month of Ramadan. Usman Ansari, a Muslim scholar, shared that in Islam, any individual who possesses surplus wealth or assets after fulfilling their necessities is obliged to give in charity.
In Ramadan, charitable giving takes two forms: Fitra and Zakat. Ansari elaborated that when a wealthy Muslim provides Zakat, it’s typically done discreetly, without public announcement. He added that recipients of Zakat, who are economically disadvantaged, should not perceive public donations as a form of humiliation.
According to Islamic teachings, every financially capable Muslim must offer Zakat during the sacred month of Ramadan. Zakat entails giving 2.5 per cent of the accumulated savings from one’s annual income to those in need, referred to as the poor or needy. For instance, if a Muslim has 100 rupees remaining after all expenses, it is incumbent upon them to give 2.5 rupees of it to someone in need. The Zakat amount is fixed at 2.5 per cent, whereas there is no set limit for Zakat al-Fitr. One may give any amount according to their capacity. Ansari highlighted that Allah has designated Eid as a celebration for everyone, irrespective of their wealth. To ensure that the joy of the occasion remains undiminished by poverty, every affluent Muslim must give both Zakat and Fitra.
Additionally, Zakat can be given to those in need throughout the year, while Zakat al-Fitr is specifically for the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, the end of Ramadan. In summary, Zakat and Zakat al-Fitr are different in their application and date, yet they have similar charity-giving goals. Muslims are required to give to both types of charities; by doing this, they support the underprivileged and advance societal welfare.
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