Sadqa-e-fitr allows needy, poor to share joys of Eid

ISLAMABAD  (APP) - Sadqa-e-fitr (also known as fitrana) is an amount of charity - in the form of staple foodstuffs - that all Muslims with the means are required to pay at the conclusion of Holy month of Ramazan.

Sadqa-e-fitr is given for several reasons. It is as an act of thankfulness towards Allah for having enabled us to observe the fasts of Ramazan and also purifies us from any shortcomings during the month.

In addition, it is intended to share joy and happiness amongst Muslims, especially the poor and needy, and to allow them to share in the joys of Eid. According to Mufti Taqi Usmani, it is a Sunnah that the Sadqa-e-fitr is paid before performing the ‘Eid prayer.

It can also be paid before the ‘Eid day, but it is not advisable to delay it up to the performance of’Eid prayer. However, if a person has failed to pay on its proper time, he should pay it as soon as possible, whereby the obligation will stand discharged.

It is incumbent on every free Muslim who possesses enough basic foodstuffs to feed himself and his family for the duration of one day and one night.