Hadith Text & Context

The hadith states: "One sa' of wheat is to be taken from every two, young or old, freeman or slave, male or female. Those of you who are rich will be purified by Allah, and those of you who are poor will have more than they gave returned by Him to them." Sulayman's version adds: "rich or poor."

This narration from Sunan Abi Dawud 1619 addresses the obligation of Zakat al-Fitr, the charity given at the end of Ramadan before Eid prayer.

Scholarly Commentary

The scholars explain that "one sa' of wheat" refers to the measure equivalent to approximately 2.176 kilograms or 4 mudd (handfuls). The obligation applies to every Muslim regardless of age, gender, or social status, emphasizing the universal nature of this purification.

The phrase "from every two" indicates that one sa' is due for every two persons, though some scholars interpret this as referring to the minimum amount per person being half sa' when paying in wheat, while others maintain it's one full sa' per person when paying in dates or barley.

The wisdom behind including all categories - young, old, free, slave - demonstrates that this purification transcends worldly distinctions and is purely for spiritual cleansing.

Spiritual Benefits

For the wealthy, Zakat al-Fitr serves as purification (tathir) from any indecent speech or behavior during Ramadan and completes the fast. As Imam Al-Nawawi stated: "It purifies the fasting person from idle talk and obscenities."

For the poor, Allah promises increased provision beyond what they gave. This reflects divine justice - the wealthy are purified while the poor receive multiplied reward and sustenance, ensuring no one is burdened without compensation.

Sulayman's addition of "rich or poor" emphasizes that the obligation applies equally to all Muslims, though the spiritual outcomes differ according to one's circumstances.

Legal Rulings

The majority of scholars hold that Zakat al-Fitr is obligatory (wajib) upon every Muslim who possesses food beyond their needs for Eid day and night. The head of household typically pays on behalf of dependents.

The prescribed amount is one sa' of staple food items - dates, barley, raisins, or wheat - with wheat being permitted at half sa' according to some schools due to its greater value.

The timing is crucial: it should be paid before Eid prayer but can be given one or two days prior to allow for distribution to the needy in time for Eid celebrations.