Qassim: As the holy month of Ramadan draws to a close, Zakat Al-Fitr once again emerges as one of the most prominent Islamic rituals, reflecting deep humanitarian and social significance. It embodies a message of solidarity and mutual support among members of society and helps bring joy to needy families on Eid Al-Fitr. Zakat Al-Fitr is an obligation upon every Muslim, whether young or old, male or female.
According to Saudi Press Agency, a Muslim gives it on his own behalf and on behalf of those he supports. It was ordained for the fasting person as a purification from idle talk and indecent speech and as a means of sparing the poor from having to beg on the day of Eid, thus fulfilling the objectives of Sharia in promoting solidarity and compassion.
The time for giving Zakat Al-Fitr begins at sunset on the last day of Ramadan and continues until before the Eid Al-Fitr prayer. It is the preferred time for giving it so that it reaches eligible recipients at the appropriate time. Many scholars allow giving it one or two days before Eid to facilitate its timely distribution and ensure it reaches beneficiaries as intended. Delaying it until after the Eid prayer without a valid excuse is considered contrary to the Sunnah, and in such a case, it is regarded as ordinary charity rather than Zakat Al-Fitr.
Zakat Al-Fitr is estimated at one saa' of food, such as rice, dates, or wheat, approximately equivalent to 2.5 to 3 kilograms. Some scholars have also permitted paying it in cash if that is more beneficial to the poor, especially considering changing needs in modern times.
Charitable associations in Qassim play a pivotal role in organizing the collection and distribution of Zakat Al-Fitr. They receive donations from individuals, whether in kind or in cash, then sort and direct them to eligible beneficiaries through precise mechanisms that ensure fairness and transparency.
Across the Kingdom, many charities and official platforms are active in the Zakat field, such as the Ehsan platform and Al-Bir Charity, offering electronic services that enable donors to pay their Zakat easily while ensuring it reaches eligible recipients within the prescribed time. Such entities help reach self-reliant needy families across various regions and organize intensive seasonal campaigns during the final days of Ramadan, benefiting from modern technologies and databases to ensure swift and efficient distribution.