Provisions Regarding Zakat Al-Fitr According to the Shafi’i School
Zakat Al-Fitr, commonly referred to as the charity of breaking the fast, refers to the obligatory charity that is distributed at the end of Ramadan. According to the Shafi’i school of thought, fulfilling Zakat Al-Fitr is an obligation. The basis for its obligation is evidenced by the narration from Abdullah ibn Umar (may Allah be pleased with him), wherein it is stated that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) prescribed Zakat Al-Fitr as being one “Sa’ (measure) of dates or one Sa’ of barley for every free Muslim, whether male or female, slave or free.”
The conditions for this obligation include that the individual must be a free and wealthy Muslim, possessing sufficient means to cover their own necessities as well as those of dependents for the night and day of Eid Al-Fitr. This should also extend beyond basic shelter, debts, and any necessary servants.
It is not obligatory for a woman to pay Zakat Al-Fitr on behalf of herself, although some scholars maintain that she must do so. Ali ibn Abi Talib (may Allah be pleased with him) is reported to have said, “It is obligatory upon anyone who is able to perform prayer and fasting.” Other scholars view Zakat Al-Fitr as a recommended act.
Evidence for the Obligation of Sadaqat Al-Fitr
Shafi’i scholars have provided multiple viewpoints on the evidence supporting the necessity of Zakat Al-Fitr, predominantly focusing on two aspects. Some assert that it is mandated by the prophetic tradition, while others cite verses from the Quran as the basis for its obligation. Regarding the first viewpoint, a reported account by Abdullah ibn Umar states that the Prophet (peace be upon him) mandated Zakat Al-Fitr as a measure of barley or dates for both young and old, free and enslaved.
The alternative viewpoint posits that Zakat Al-Fitr is mandated by a verse from the Quran, with prophetic tradition clarifying its application. Some scholars interpret Allah’s statement, “Indeed, success has been achieved by one who purifies himself,” as referring specifically to Zakat Al-Fitr. Others cite, “And they establish prayer and give zakat,” as a foundational mandate.
Individuals for Whom Zakat Al-Fitr is Paid
Zakat Al-Fitr is obligatory when applicable to both the individual and anyone for whom they are financially responsible. As per the Shafi’i school, the responsibility extends to dependents through ties of blood and marriage. This includes obligations towards one’s wife, children, and dependent relatives such as parents.
To fulfill Zakat Al-Fitr on behalf of others, the recipients must be Muslim, and the provider must have the means to assist them. However, the obligation does not extend to a stepmother or a slave who may need financial support. Zakat should first be provided for oneself, then one’s wife, followed by minor children, parents, and adult children.
The Timing of Zakat Al-Fitr
It is permissible to distribute Zakat Al-Fitr throughout Ramadan, with the preferable time being the day of Eid before the prayer. Anyone who delays payment without a valid excuse is in violation and must seek to make up for it. Regarding the timing of obligation, there are two primary opinions within the Shafi’i school:
- First Opinion
The dominant view among Shafi’i scholars indicates that Zakat Al-Fitr becomes obligatory at sunset on the last day of Ramadan. Thus, anyone witnessing the sunset on the eve of Eid is required to pay, even if they pass away just after sunset. This position is also upheld by Imam Shafi’i in his newer opinions, as well as by other scholars such as Malik and Ahmad.
This assertion is supported by prophetic traditions indicating that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) commanded Zakat Al-Fitr as a means to purify the fasting person from frivolity and inappropriate speech. Furthermore, based on the previous narration by Ibn Umar, it follows that breaking the fast from Ramadan coincides with the sunset on the last day of the month.
- Second Opinion
The second opinion asserts that Zakat Al-Fitr becomes obligatory at dawn on Eid day. This view is supported by earlier positions of Imam Shafi’i as well as by scholars like Abu Hanifa, Abu Thawr, and Malik in one of his narrations. Their reference is based on the Prophet’s statement at the Eid, advising that individuals should not be burdened on this day.
This earlier opinion is considered weaker, and their reasoning rests on the previous narration by Ibn Umar regarding the timing coinciding with the day of Eid, paralleling Zakat Al-Fitr with that of the sacrificial offerings due to their connection to the holiday.
Amount of Zakat Al-Fitr
The obligatory amount of Zakat Al-Fitr for each individual is one Sa’, which is equivalent to approximately five and a third Baghdadi pounds, or four and a half and a quarter with an additional seventh Egyptian ounces, equating to about 2.5 kg. The preferred forms of sustenance for Zakat typically align with the staple foods of the region, such as wheat, and it is permissible to give dairy products or similar essentials.
It is prohibited to pay Zakat Al-Fitr with items that are below the staple food standards of the community; however, higher-quality items can be given. The Shafi’i school maintains that Zakat Al-Fitr should be provided in kind rather than as monetary equivalent. Nonetheless, in contemporary contexts, monetary donations may offer greater benefit to those in need, allowing followers the option of adhering to the view of Imam Abu Hanifa regarding monetary values.