In the joyful and happy atmosphere of Eid, the sublime values ​​of Islam are evident, emphasizing social solidarity, making Eid a holiday for all, not just the wealthy. One of the greatest forms of giving on this blessed day is Zakat al-Fitr, ordained by God to provide food for the needy, purify the fasting person, and serve as a message of mercy extending from the hand of the giver to the heart of the poor, relieving them of the burden of need and granting them moments of joy undiminished by deprivation.

It embodies the meanings of brotherhood and compassion, spreading happiness and achieving solidarity, so that every member of society feels that the joy of Eid is only complete when it extends to include everyone. Eid Day is a day of radiant goodness, filled with goodness, where no poor person sleeps hungry or deprived and broken.

Is Zakat al-Fitr considered a right of the poor in Islam?

In Islam, Zakat al-Fitr is not merely a charity given by the wealthy. Rather, it is a legitimate right for the needy and the poor, ordained by God to achieve social justice and ensure the joy of Eid for all. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) explained the wisdom behind its legitimacy in a hadith:

On the authority of Ibn Abbas (may God be pleased with him), who said:

"The Messenger of God (peace and blessings be upon him) enjoined Zakat al-Fitr as a purification for the fasting person from idle talk and obscene speech, and as food for the poor." (Narrated by Abu Dawud and Ibn Majah).

Evidence for Considering Zakat al-Fitr as a Right for the Poor:

1. It is a binding religious obligation:

Islam has enjoined it on every able-bodied Muslim; it is not a voluntary donation, which confirms that it is a right owed to the poor.

2. Achieving Social Balance:

It ensures that food reaches the poor on Eid, so that no one is left in need, and everyone shares in the joy of Eid.

3. Preserving the dignity of the needy:

It relieves them of the need to beg on Eid, which preserves their status and gives them a sense of equality with the rest of society.

4. Establishing solidarity in society:

It reminds Muslims of their responsibility toward the needy and emphasizes that solidarity is part of an integrated economic and social system.

5. Meeting needs at the appropriate time:

The obligation to pay it before the Eid prayer ensures that it reaches the poor at the time when they need it most.

Thus, Zakat al-Fitr serves as a bridge of compassion and solidarity among members of society, preserving the rights of the poor and instilling a sense of unity in the nation's joy.

Through this legislation, Islam proves that it is a religion of justice, where no poor person is left without food, and no needy person is deprived of the joy of Eid.

The Importance of Zakat al-Fitr in Promoting Social Solidarity Among Muslims

Zakat al-Fitr is one of the most important means of promoting social solidarity among Muslims. It contributes to achieving social justice by requiring able-bodied Muslims to give a portion of food to the poor and needy in society, thus bridging the economic gaps between people.

During Eid, when everyone experiences joy and happiness, Zakat al-Fitr gives the poor and needy an opportunity to experience this joy. It helps them meet their basic food needs, thus enhancing their sense of dignity and ensuring they are not deprived of the joy and happiness of Eid.

Zakat al-Fitr also makes the wealthy feel responsible toward the poor and encourages them to participate in helping those less able, fostering a spirit of cooperation and equality among all. Furthermore, Zakat al-Fitr encourages solidarity among Muslims throughout the year, teaching them that giving is an essential part of their daily lives.

This approach demonstrates the great human values ​​that promote unity and harmony in society, making everyone feel part of a single family in which each member contributes to the well-being of others.

Zakat al-Fitr is an effective means of building a society characterized by solidarity, compassion, and equality. It helps create an environment of cooperation and harmony among all, contributing to stability and social solidarity.

How does Zakat al-Fitr bring joy to the hearts of the poor?

Zakat al-Fitr carries great meaning in spreading joy and happiness in the hearts of the poor as Eid approaches. It ensures they are provided with the food they need, easing the burden of need on a day that is supposed to be filled with joy and sharing. When Zakat reaches them, they feel like they are part of society, not marginalized or forgotten, but rather someone who thinks of them and seeks to make them happy.

This giving contributes to strengthening their sense of security and reassurance, as the poor find what supports them without having to ask or feel embarrassed.

The timely arrival of Zakat al-Fitr also enables the poor to welcome Eid with the same spirit as others, fostering solidarity and love among members of society.

In addition, Zakat al-Fitr reminds everyone that joy is not complete without sharing with others, and that Eid is only truly joyful when everyone feels equal in blessings and joy. This strengthens social cohesion and makes Eid a joy for all without exception.

The Role of Zakat al-Fitr in Promoting the Concept of Solidarity in Islamic Society

Social solidarity is one of the most important principles upon which Islamic society is based, and Zakat al-Fitr clearly embodies this principle. It is imposed on those who are able to help those who are unable, ensuring a sense of social balance. This, in turn, gives everyone the opportunity to celebrate Eid without feeling needy or deprived, thus reinforcing the values ​​of solidarity and cooperation in Islamic society.

The following explains the importance of Zakat al-Fitr and its role in promoting social solidarity among members of society:

1. Meeting the Needs of the Poor and Needy:

It provides them with their basic food needs on the day of Eid, relieving them of the burdens of poverty and giving them the opportunity to rejoice without feeling deprived.

2. Promoting the spirit of love and brotherhood among Muslims:

When the wealthy participate in supporting the needy, feelings of affection and compassion are enhanced among members of society, strengthening social relations and eliminating class differences.

3. Developing a sense of social responsibility:

Zakat al-Fitr fosters in Muslims a sense of responsibility toward others and reminds them that solidarity is not merely a form of charity, but rather a religious duty that contributes to building a more cohesive society.

4. Achieving equality and justice among members of society:

Zakat al-Fitr gives the poor the opportunity to enjoy Eid like others, making everyone feel equal and eliminating feelings of isolation or marginalization from those in need.

5. Strengthening community unity and strengthening social ties:

It contributes to the cohesion of society, as everyone feels they are part of a single system that cooperates to achieve good and justice for all.

Thus, Zakat al-Fitr becomes a practical means of instilling the values ​​of social solidarity, which strengthens the cohesion of Islamic society so that it remains based on mercy, cooperation, and equality.