Helping others

One of the most important obligations before Eid-ul-Fitr is giving Sadqa Fitr. This act of charity is a means to cleanse our fasts, purify our wealth, and share our blessings with the underprivileged. Every able Muslim must give Sadqa Fitr before offering the Eid prayer, so that the needy can prepare for Eid and celebrate it with dignity and joy.

Every year, scholars and Islamic institutions determine the amount of Sadqa Fitr based on the cost of staple food items. This year, the amount has been set at Rs. 76 per person in a household. This means that if a family consists of five members, they must contribute Rs. 76 × 5 = Rs. 380 as Sadqa Fitr.

This contribution must be made before the Eid prayer so that it reaches those in need in time for them to prepare for Eid celebrations. Delaying or neglecting this obligation diminishes its purpose, as the essence of Sadqa Fitr is to help the poor enjoy Eid just like everyone else.

Islam emphasizes that charity should be given with sincerity, humility, and without any expectation of recognition. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) taught us: "Give charity with your right hand in such a way that even your left hand does not know about it."

This means that our Sadqa Fitr should be given discreetly, without boasting or making a show of our generosity. The purpose of this charity is to seek the pleasure of Allah and to help those in need—not to gain praise or attention.

In today's digital world, where financial transactions are often done online, we should still strive to give Sadqa Fitr personally to those who need it. Handing it over directly to a poor person strengthens the bond of brotherhood in the Muslim community and allows us to witness firsthand the impact of our charity.

Who Should Receive Sadqa Fitr?

Sadqa Fitr should be given to those who are truly in need, including:

• Poor and needy individuals who struggle to afford food and basic necessities.
• Orphans who do not have the means to celebrate Eid.
• Widows and single mothers who lack financial support.

• Laborers and daily wage workers who may not have earned enough to buy essentials for Eid.

It is important to distribute Sadqa Fitr wisely and to ensure that it reaches the deserving people in time. If we fail to give this charity before Eid, it remains due as a general charity (Sadaqah) but does not fulfill the obligation of Sadqa Fitr.

The Spiritual Benefits

Giving Sadqa Fitr is not just about fulfilling a religious duty—it brings numerous spiritual benefits:

• It purifies our fasts, making them more accepted by Allah.
• It cleanses our wealth and increases blessings in our sustenance.
• It spreads love, compassion, and unity in society.
• It ensures that no one in the community feels left out on the day of Eid.
• It draws us closer to Allah, as He loves those who help the less fortunate.

As Eid approaches, let us all be mindful of our responsibility and ensure that no one in our surroundings is deprived of joy. We must set aside our Sadqa Fitr in advance and distribute it to the needy before the Eid prayer.

May Allah accept our Sadqa and bless us with prosperity, happiness, and countless rewards. May He bring comfort to the poor and needy and allow them to celebrate Eid with the same joy as everyone else.

This Eid, let us spread happiness, kindness, and generosity—not just in our homes but in the hearts of those who need it the most.