On March 20, Ramadan Bayram (Eid al-Fitr) will be celebrated in Azerbaijan.
As the holiday approaches, the amount of this year's fitra zakat has also been one of the most discussed topics.
It should be noted that in the fatwa issued by the Council of Qadis of the Caucasus Muslims Office (CMO) regarding Ramadan, the amount of this year's fitra zakat has been determined to be around 10-15 manats per person.
However, this amount is considered high for the vast majority. People are of the opinion that not everyone's financial means are sufficient to pay this amount.
In a statement to Modern.az, **Jeyhun Mammadov**, a member of the Milli Majlis Committee on Public Associations and Religious Organizations, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Theology, stated that one of the most frequently asked questions during Ramadan concerns the timing and amount of fitra zakat.
“Depending on each person's means, this amount can vary between 10-15 AZN. This directly depends on the value of the foodstuff given as fitra zakat. If you calculate fitra zakat based on the price of wheat, the amount will be lower; if you calculate it based on dates or rice, it will be higher. This is because there is a price difference between all three types of foodstuffs.
Regarding the question of “Should fitra zakat be given in food, or can money equivalent to the value of food also be given?” some Islamic scholars emphasize the necessity of giving fitra zakat strictly in food.
However, considering the needs of the modern era, a number of Islamic scholars also state the possibility of giving money equivalent to the value of food.
I also believe that, taking into account today's realities, fitra zakat can be given in money. Since the person receiving fitra zakat knows what they need most, they can use that money to buy the food or other necessary items they desire.
It is essential for every person who has the means to give fitra zakat. Fitra zakat must be given to those in need. Regarding the timing of fitra zakat, it must be given by the last day of Ramadan, at the latest before the Eid prayer.
