Kaffara, Fidyah, and Zakat al-Fitr for Ramadan: Payment of Islamic Obligations(Wajib)
Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and generosity. However, for those unable to fast due to valid reasons or those who have intentionally broken their fast, Islamic law mandates specific compensatory payments such as Kaffara, Fidyah, and Zakat al-Fitr. Understanding how these amounts are calculated is essential for ensuring that our obligations align with Islamic teachings.
As an Islamic charity, we at Our Islamic Charity strictly follow Islamic laws and consult with scholars and Imams to determine the appropriate values for these obligations. Our calculations are based on average prices in various regions, including the Middle East, Africa, and Europe, such as the UK, Germany, and France. Let us guide you through the process of calculating these essential payments.
Kaffara for Breaking the Fast Intentionally
Kaffara (expiation) applies to those who deliberately break a fast during Ramadan without a valid reason. Islamic law requires either fasting for sixty consecutive days or feeding sixty needy people for each day the fast was broken. If one cannot fast due to health or other legitimate reasons, the alternative is to provide food to the poor.
How to Calculate Kaffara:
- Fasting: If you can fast, you must fast for 60 consecutive days for each missed fast.
- Feeding the Poor: If you are unable to fast, you must feed 60 poor people per missed fast.
The cost is determined by the price of a standard meal in your region.
We calculate the average meal price in the Middle East, Africa, and Europe and adjust accordingly. For example, if a meal costs $4, the total Kaffara per missed fast is $240. We have calculated this amount of Kaffara payment and you can see it from here or pay your Kaffara.
Fidyah for Those Unable to Fast
Fidyah applies to those who cannot fast due to chronic illness, old age, or other permanent conditions. Unlike Kaffara, Fidyah is a simple compensation for missed fasts.
How to Calculate Fidyah:
- One meal per fast: You must provide one meal for a needy person per missed fast.
- Monetary Equivalent: The cost of one meal varies based on location. On average:
- In Middle Eastern and African countries, a meal costs $2 – $5.
- In European countries like the UK, Germany, and France, a meal may cost $5 – $10.
If a meal costs $6, the total Fidyah for 30 missed fasts would be $180. We have calculated this amount of Fidyah payment and you can see it from here or pay your Fidyah.
Zakat al-Fitr: The Obligatory Charity Before Eid
Zakat al-Fitr is an obligatory charity that must be given before Eid al-Fitr. This ensures that the poor can also celebrate the festival and that the fasts of the giver are purified from any shortcomings.
How to Calculate Zakat al-Fitr:
- Basic Requirement: It is equal to the value of approximately one Sa’a (about 3 kg or 4.25 liters) of staple food such as wheat, barley, dates, or rice.
- Monetary Equivalent: The price varies by country and staple food prices. On average:
- Middle East & Africa: $3 – $10 per person
- Europe (UK, Germany, France): $7 – $15 per person
- For a Family: If a family of five needs to pay, and the Zakat al-Fitr rate is $10 per person, the total payment would be $50.
Finally, if you like, calculate the regional price yourself. You can pay the amount calculated by yourself through the “Other Amount” payment.
Ensuring Accuracy and Compliance with Islamic Law
At Our Islamic Charity, we continuously update our calculations based on current prices to ensure that our donors fulfill their obligations accurately. We follow scholarly opinions and fatwas, ensuring that our recommended amounts align with Islamic law.
By donating through us, you ensure that your contributions reach those in need efficiently and in accordance with Islamic teachings. Whether you are paying Kaffara, Fidyah, or Zakat al-Fitr, we facilitate the process with precise regional pricing to make your donations impactful.
May Allah accept our fasts, our worship, and our charity. May He bless you, our dear donors, for your generosity and commitment to supporting the needy. Ameen.