By taking from their property the allowance reserved for whom it may concern, believers are therefore only returning to the Lord a tiny fraction of the wealth He has given them: This is Zakat-el-mal, purifying alms, not to be confused with zakat-el-fitr.

The zakat-el-fitr is a very recommendable practice (Sounna), which concerns the fasting of the month of Ramadhan and which is incumbent on all Muslims. On the individual level, this tax is due to purify each believer of anything that could have tainted his fast such as obscene remarks or misconduct. On the social level, this alms allows the poor to spend the feast of Eid-el-fitr in better conditions. The poor are, in fact, priority there, because the Prophet said: “spare them begging on the day of Eid. »

1. It can be offered in the form of a "sa'a" (measure of about 2.7 kilos) of rice, wheat, dates, or other such foods.

2. In the early days of Islam, it was given in the form of foodstuffs. It has not been reported, in fact, that the Prophet performed it in specie, neither did his companions. However, scholars, after an effort of interpretation (ijtihad) have concluded that it can be given in cash. This provides more flexibility for both donors and recipients who will be free to acquire the products they want the most.

3. The zakat-al-fitr must be given on the day of Eid, at the latest before the prayer, and can be given one or two days before.
However, it can be given from the beginning of Ramadhan according to Imams Ashafé 'i and Abu Hanifa, especially if you want to send it abroad.

4. Zakat-al-fitr must be given on behalf of Muslims, whether they are minors or adults, male or female.

Ibn 'Umar reported that the Messenger of Allah (peace_be_upon_him) prescribed as the payment of zakat-al-fitr for the month of Ramadhan to every Muslim - whether free or slave, male or female , young or old- a sa'a of dates, or a sa'a of barley. (Muslim).

Sa'd bin Abu Sarh heard Abu Sa'id al-Khudri say: "We offered zakat-al-fitr in the form of grain sa'a, or barley sa'a, or a sa'a of dates, or a sa'a of cheese, or a sa'a of grapes. (Muslim).

Ibn Umar reported that the Messenger of Allah (peace_be_upon_him) ordered that zakat-al-fitr be given, before people leave their homes to go to the Eid (Muslim) prayer.