The Distinction Between Zakat and Zakat al-Fitr in Ramadan 2024

During Ramadan, giving Zakat and Zakat al-Fitr is very important, in addition to fasting, doing namaz, and memorizing the Quran. One of the main tenets of Islam is the zakat. During the month of Ramadan, every Muslim is required to provide Fitra, also called Zakat al-fitr, and Zakat before the Eid prayers. Muslim scholar Usman Ansari revealed that, according to Islamic law, anybody left with assets or extra money after meeting their basic needs must donate them to charity.

There are two ways to give to charity during Ramadan: Fitra and Zakat. Ansari clarified that when a rich Muslim gives Zakat, it is usually done covertly and in secret. The economically challenged Zakat beneficiaries, he said, should not see public gifts as a source of embarrassment.

Islamic teachings state that during the holy month of Ramadan, any Muslim who is able to do so must give Zakat. Zakat is the practice of donating 2.5 percent of one’s yearly income—also known as the poor or needy—to those who are in need. For example, it is the duty of a Muslim to donate 2.5 rupees to a person in need out of every 100 rupees that remain after all costs. While Zakat al-Fitr has no predetermined limit, the amount for Zakat is fixed at 2.5 percent. Any amount given, depending on one’s resources, is acceptable. Ansari emphasized that everyone is welcome to celebrate Eid, regardless of income, since it has been declared by Allah. Any wealthy Muslim who wishes to preserve the pleasure of the event from being dampened by poverty must contribute both Fitra and Zakat.

Furthermore, while Zakat al-Fitr is only given on Eid al-Fitr, at the conclusion of Ramadan, Zakat may be given to people in need all year. In conclusion, although Zakat and Zakat al-Fitr vary in terms of timing and application, their charitable objectives are comparable. Muslims are obligated to donate to both kinds of charity; by doing so, they uplift the poor and promote the welfare of society.