Zakat Fitrah in the Month of Ramadan: The Virtue that Brings Abundance of Blessings and Gratitude

Kapanlagi.com - The month of Ramadan is not just a time to refrain from hunger and thirst, but also a golden opportunity to purify the soul and share happiness with others. As Eid al-Fitr approaches, there is one important practice that every Muslim must not miss: zakat fitrah. This practice is not only to complete the worship of fasting, but also as a manifestation of care for those in need.

Zakat fitrah has extraordinary virtues, both spiritually and socially. It not only purifies wealth but also brings blessings into life. Its positive impact is felt not only by individuals but also by society as a whole.

So, what are the virtues of zakat fitrah that make it so special in Islam? Let’s take a look at the complete explanation summarized by Kapanlagi.com, Wednesday (12/3).

1. Purifying Oneself and Perfecting the Worship of Fasting

2. Helping Others and Reducing Social Gaps

Fitrh zakat plays an important role in maintaining social balance by helping those who are less fortunate to celebrate Eid al-Fitr with dignity. According to the Prophet Muhammad SAW in Sunan Daruqutni:67, paying zakat means helping to ensure a decent living for the poor, so that on the festive day they are not burdened.

“Fulfill the needs (of the poor), so that they do not ask on the Day of Eid al-Fitr,” quoting baznas.jogjakota.go.id.

By fulfilling fitrah zakat, a Muslim not only purifies their wealth but also contributes to creating a more just and harmonious society. Those who receive zakat can meet their food needs on the festive day, so that no one feels marginalized in the joy of Eid al-Fitr.

Fitrh zakat also fosters a sense of empathy and social solidarity, strengthens relationships among fellow Muslims, and creates a sense of togetherness within the community.

3. Opening the Door of Sustenance and Gaining Blessings of Wealth

One of the great virtues of zakat fitrah is that it brings blessings in sustenance. In a hadith, the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said:

مَا نَقَصَتْ صَدَقَةٌ مِنْ مَالٍ

"Charity does not decrease wealth, but instead increases blessings." (HR. Muslim)

Although zakat fitrah may visibly reduce a small portion of a person's wealth, in Islam, the concept of blessings is more important than the material amount. The wealth that is given as zakat will be purer, grow, and bring forth more blessed sustenance.

Moreover, Allah SWT has also promised to multiply the rewards for those who give charity and fulfill zakat sincerely. By channeling a portion of their wealth to those in need, a Muslim will draw closer to blessings and ease in their life.

4. Cultivating Gratitude and Avoiding Stinginess

Paying zakat fitrah is not just an obligation, but also a manifestation of gratitude for all the blessings that Allah has given. By sharing with others, a Muslim becomes increasingly aware that the wealth they possess is merely a trust that should be used for good.

Zakat fitrah opens our hearts to the conditions of those around us, distancing us from stinginess and selfishness. In Islamic teachings, sharing is key, not hoarding wealth for personal gain.

When fulfilling zakat sincerely, one will feel deep happiness, as they have contributed to creating happiness for others, especially as the blessed holiday approaches.

5. Making Life More Meaningful and Worthy of Worship

Every act of worship in Islam is designed to bring a servant's heart closer to the Creator, and zakat fitrah is one of the practices that radiates a high value of worship. By fulfilling zakat fitrah, a Muslim not only fulfills a religious obligation but also gives deeper meaning to their life journey.

Islam teaches that the wealth we possess is not an absolute right, but there is a responsibility to share it with those in need through zakat and charity.

When someone consciously fulfills zakat fitrah, they not only attain rewards and blessings but also fill their life with meaning, as they have provided benefits for others.

6. FAQ

1. What is zakat fitrah and who is required to pay it?

Zakat fitrah is a mandatory charity that must be paid by every Muslim, both adults and children, who possess excess wealth during the month of Ramadan.

2. When is the best time to pay zakat fitrah?

Zakat fitrah can be paid from the beginning of Ramadan until before the Idulfitri prayer, but it is preferable to give it just before the holiday so that it can be immediately utilized by the recipients.

3. What are the benefits of zakat fitrah for individuals and society?

Zakat fitrah purifies the soul, completes the act of fasting, helps the poor and needy, fosters a sense of gratitude, and brings blessings to one's sustenance.

4. How much zakat fitrah should be paid?

The amount of zakat fitrah is equivalent to 2.5 kg or 3.5 liters of rice or other staple foods, or it can be converted into monetary value based on the current price of rice.

(kpl/rmt)