Karak, March 17 (Petra)-- Specialists in Islamic jurisprudence and Sharia law said that Zakat al-Fitr plays a significant role in cleansing the fast of any imperfections and purifying it from all sins, and that Muslims should promptly give it willingly on their own accord.

The Mufti of Karak, Walid Al-Thnaibat, explained that Islam is a religion of solidarity, cooperation, and compassion, seeking during this holy month to bring joy to everyone’s hearts. He noted that the majority of jurists and scholars from past generations agree that Zakat al-Fitr is obligatory, and that it must be paid by an individual for themselves and for their children who do not have independent means.

He pointed out that Zakat al-Fitr should be given before people leave for Eid prayer, but it is permissible to give it on any day during Ramadan as long as it is paid before the Eid prayer.

Sharia researcher Sufyan Al-Habashneh added that one of the purposes of Zakat al-Fitr is to support the poor, needy, and disadvantaged families on the day of Eid, a day of joy and celebration. God has permitted breaking the fast on Eid and prohibited fasting, while establishing Zakat al-Fitr so that Muslims share in the joy, help the weak, and provide care from the rich to the poor.

Meanwhile, Wisal Al-Rahaifa, a voluntary activist and board member of the Union of Charitable Societies in Karak, noted that there are many chaste families waiting impatiently for the time of Zakat al-Fitr to meet some of their needs. She added, "I do not forget the signs of joy and happiness drawn on the faces of chaste families and on the lips of children as the zakat is distributed among the homes of the poor." //Petra