Authentic Ahadith Regarding Sadaqah al-Fitr

Written by: Muhammad Arshad Kamal, Monthly Noor-ul-Hadith

Introduction to Sadaqah al-Fitr and Its Rulings​

Sadaqah al-Fitr, also known as:

• Zakat al-Fitr
• Zakat of Fasting
• Zakat of Ramadan
• Charity of Ramadan
• Charity of Fasting

In common terms, it is referred to as Fitrana. Sadaqah al-Fitr refers to the charity given at the end of Ramadan to celebrate the completion of fasting and compensate for any shortcomings during the month. It serves as an expiation for sins and enables the needy to partake in the joy of Eid.

Sayyiduna Ibn Abbas (RA) narrates that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) prescribed Sadaqah al-Fitr:

"To purify fasting from idle and inappropriate talk and as sustenance for the needy. Whoever gives it before the Eid Salah, it will be accepted as Zakat. Whoever gives it after the Eid Salah, it will be considered ordinary charity."

(Sunan Abu Dawood 1609, Hasan chain)

Rulings of Sadaqah al-Fitr​

① Sadaqah al-Fitr Is Obligatory​

In most Ahadith, the term "Farda" (فرض) is used, indicating that it is an obligation. Imam Ibn al-Mundhir (RA) states that there is consensus on its obligation.
(Kitab al-Ijma 35)

② It Is Obligatory on All Muslims​

Sadaqah al-Fitr is obligatory on every Muslim, regardless of wealth, gender, or age.
Sayyiduna Ibn Umar (RA) narrates:

"The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) made Sadaqah al-Fitr obligatory on every free or enslaved Muslim, male or female, young or old: one Sa’ of dates or one Sa’ of barley, and commanded it to be given before the Eid prayer."

(Sahih Bukhari 1503)

③ Payment Must Be in Staple Foods​

Sadaqah al-Fitr should be paid with staple food items. The amount prescribed is one Sa’.
Sayyiduna Abu Sa’id al-Khudri (RA) said:

"During the time of the Prophet (ﷺ), we used to give one Sa’ of food, dates, barley, or raisins as Sadaqah al-Fitr. When wheat came (during the era of Muawiyah), he considered one Mudd of wheat equivalent to two Mudds of other grains."

(Sahih Muslim 985; Sunan Abu Dawood 1616)

④ Measurement of One​

The Sa’ is a traditional measure, comparable to a modern weight. Scholars differ slightly on its exact weight:

• Opinion 1: 2 Ser (Pakistani measure), 10 Chhatank (approx. 2.5 kg)
• Opinion 2: 2 Ser, 4 Chhatank (approx. 2.1 kg)

The first opinion is more cautious, while the second is valid but less preferred.

Another simple method is to use four moderate handfuls (lops) of both hands filled and given as charity.

⑤ Preferred Mode of Payment: Food​

The most preferred method of paying Sadaqah al-Fitr is through food items, as explicitly stated in the Ahadith and practiced by the Companions. Paying in cash is permissible but less ideal.
Shaykh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah (RA) stated:

"Sadaqah al-Fitr should be given in the staple food of the region."

(Majmu’ al-Fatawa 25/35-36)

If one gives its equivalent value in money, it is acceptable as it fulfills the purpose of feeding the needy. Sayyiduna Umar ibn Abdul Aziz instructed collecting half a dirham as Sadaqah al-Fitr.
(Musannaf Ibn Abi Shaybah 3/74, Hadith 10358; Sahih chain)

⑥ Timing of Payment​

Sadaqah al-Fitr must be paid before the Eid prayer.
Sayyiduna Abdullah ibn Umar (RA) narrates:

"The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) commanded Sadaqah al-Fitr to be given before leaving for the Eid prayer."

(Sahih Bukhari 1509)

Imam Nafi (RA) narrates that Ibn Umar (RA) used to send his Sadaqah al-Fitr two or three days before Eid to those collecting it.
(Muwatta Malik 631, Sahih chain)

Conclusion​

Sadaqah al-Fitr is an obligatory act of worship that purifies the fasting person and helps the poor celebrate Eid. It is best given in staple food items, although monetary payment is also acceptable. Paying it before the Eid prayer is necessary to fulfill its purpose effectively. Let us strive to practice this beautiful Sunnah in its true spirit.