Ramadan, the month of mercy, sharing, and spiritual purification, begins on February 19. The month of Ramadan is remembered not only for the observance of fasting but also as a period when traditions of helping those in need, hosting iftar meals, and charity are strengthened. In this regard, Zakat al-Fitr, considered an integral part of the fasting worship, also holds special significance. With the approach of the holy month of Ramadan, the question of how much the amount of Zakat al-Fitr will be this year becomes one of the main inquiries.
Modern.az contacted Hacı Fuad Nurullayev, Deputy Chairman of the Caucasus Muslims Office, regarding the topic.
He stated that a fatwa would be announced one week before the start of Ramadan, and at that time, recommendations regarding the amount of Zakat al-Fitr would be disclosed to the public.
In a statement to our website, Ceyhun Məmmədov, a member of the Milli Majlis Committee on Public Associations and Religious Organizations, noted that Ramadan is not only a month of worship but also a time for prayer and spiritual purification.
The deputy added that when Ramadan is approached as a complex act of worship, it is observed that this month combines many religious rituals. He also emphasized that every person who is able to provide for their daily sustenance and that of their family should give Zakat al-Fitr:
“From this perspective, the main significance and importance of the month of Ramadan emerge precisely here. Every Muslim must absolutely give this zakat at the end of the month of Ramadan.
Zakat al-Fitr can be given with several types of food items. These include rice, wheat, dates, and other staple food products. For this reason, the amount of Zakat al-Fitr can also vary. If a cheaper food item is chosen, the amount is less; if a more expensive product is chosen, the amount increases. The recommended average amount is considered to be approximately 10 manats. It is advised that every Muslim who can afford it gives Zakat al-Fitr in this amount.”
C. Məmmədov also stated that, in addition, the amount designated for Zakat al-Fitr may vary:
“For example, depending on the type of food chosen and its market price, Zakat al-Fitr can be less or more. The main principle is to consider the value of approximately 3 kilograms of staple food (dates, wheat, etc.). According to some approaches, Zakat al-Fitr must be given in the form of food. This was also the case during the Prophet's time. However, considering that people's needs are different in modern times, sometimes other food products or general financial support are more beneficial for a person in need than rice or dates.
Precisely for this reason, many scholars consider it permissible to give Zakat al-Fitr in monetary form. As mentioned, this amount is approximately 10 manats. When considering the minimum food value, Zakat al-Fitr can also be around 5 manats. Nevertheless, the recommendation is to choose the maximum possible amount within one's means and consider the process based on this,” the deputy noted.
It should be noted that March 8, 10, 12, and 16 are the Nights of Qadr. The 1st and 2nd of Shawwal (March 20 and 21) will be celebrated as Ramadan Bayram (Eid al-Fitr) in Azerbaijan.
It should be recalled that Zakat al-Fitr must be given according to the number of family members.
