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The festival of Eid is not just a day of happiness and celebration, but it also includes some customs behind which deep religious and social thinking is hidden. For every Muslim, certain special donations and traditions are important on this day, which are not limited to just helping others.

There is a special purpose hidden behind rituals like Zakat and Fitra, which strengthen equality and brotherhood in the society. The way and time of celebrating it on the day of Eid is also very important, which makes it even more special.

What is Zakat?

Zakat is an important part of the five pillars of Islam and it is considered necessary for every capable Muslim. It is seen as a religious duty, under which a person gives a fixed portion of his annual savings or property to the needy. Generally the rate of Zakat is 2.5% of the total wealth, but it has to be paid only if the wealth of the person exceeds the limit of ‘Nisab’. Nisab is the minimum amount, only after crossing which it becomes necessary to pay Zakat.

Why is Zakat given?

The purpose of Zakat is not only to give charity, but also to maintain economic balance in the society. Through this, poor, orphans, widows and needy people are helped, so that they too can live a respectable and good life.

What is Fitra (Sadaqa-e-Fitr)?

Fitra is also called Sadaka-e-Fitr. This is one of the special donations of Eid-ul-Fitr. It is considered necessary for every Muslim, even if he is financially weak, as long as he has a little more money than his needs. Fitra is given before the Eid prayers.

Why is it necessary to give Fitra?

The main objective of Fitra is that no one remains hungry on the day of Eid and everyone can participate in the happiness of this festival. The amount of Fitra is usually fixed equal to one person’s food for one day. In India this amount may vary according to local conditions, but generally it can be Rs 70 to Rs 150 or more.

What is the difference between Zakat and Fitra?

Zakat and Fitra are both forms of charity, but there is a clear difference in their purpose and timing.

• Time difference: Zakat can be given at any time of the year, whereas Fitra is required to be given only before Eid-ul-Fitr.
• Different purposes: The purpose of Zakat is to create economic balance in the society in the long run, whereas the purpose of Fitra is to provide immediate help to the needy on the day of Eid.
• To whom it applies: Zakat applies only to those whose assets exceed Nisab, while Fitra is considered mandatory for almost every Muslim.

Importance of Zakat and Fitra

Zakat and Fitra are not just religious duties, but they are also a means of increasing the feeling of brotherhood and equality in the society. Through these, the distance between the rich and the poor reduces and the feeling of helping each other becomes stronger. On the occasion of Eid, when people donate and help the needy, this festival is not limited to their own happiness, but becomes an occasion of happiness for everyone. This is the reason why help is provided to the needy in mosques and public places in many cities of the country.