Chairman of the Council of Islamic Ideology (CII), Dr. Raghib Naeemi, emphasized the distinction between Zakat and voluntary charity (Sadaqa). He highlighted that Zakat is guided by specific rules in Islamic law, dictating the amount and recipients, while Sadaqa can be given freely in any amount for the sake of Allah.
In an interview with Express News, Dr. Naeemi outlined that Zakat is designated for specific categories of individuals as per Islamic teachings, such as the poor, the needy, those in debt, and those serving in the cause of Allah. Conversely, Sadaqa encompasses various forms of assistance beyond financial aid, including clothing, essential goods, educational materials, or tools to support livelihoods.
Dr. Naeemi cautioned against offering Zakat or charity from illicit earnings, as such actions are not accepted by Allah and may incur sin instead of reward. He stressed the importance of verifying the eligibility of recipients to ensure that funds reach those genuinely in need, rather than individuals who exploit free distributions without true necessity.
Addressing the practice of fitra, Dr. Naeemi explained that it becomes obligatory to pay fitra on behalf of a child born before the Eid prayer. Typically, fathers cover fitra for dependent children, while women may pay their own or have their husbands fulfill the obligation. Fitra aims to offset deficiencies during fasting and enable less fortunate individuals to partake in the Eid celebrations by meeting their essential needs.
Regarding the government's Zakat system, Dr. Naeemi acknowledged existing concerns but noted that Zakat funds are channeled to deserving recipients through established institutions, hospitals, and vocational training centers. He advised against providing Zakat or charity to professional beggars, urging individuals to identify genuinely needy individuals who uphold their dignity while seeking assistance.
