Welcoming the Arrival of Syawal

In seizing the opportunities to increase and improve our acts of worship and charity at the end of Ramadhan, Muslims are reminded the obligation of paying zakat or tithe for oneself and their dependents. Tithe payment is one of the five pillars of Islam. These matters were highlighted during today’s Khutbah Jumaat or Friday Sermon titled ‘Welcoming the Arrival of Syawal.’

The Imam or Prayer Leader said the time to pay Zakat Fitrah is divided into five. Firstly, the wajib or obligatory time that starts from the sunset on the last day of Ramadhan. Secondly, Sunat or Recommended time: before the Imam performs Hari Raya Aidil Fitri Prayer. Thirdly, Harus or permissible time, from the beginning of Ramadhan. Fourth, Makruh or disliked time is after the Hari Raya Aidil Fitri prayer. Finally, Haram or Prohibited Time, after the sun sets on the first day of Hari Raya Aidil Fitri. This act is a sin and must be paid as Qadha. The obligatory payment of tithes promises special rewards and brings blessings to the Muslim ummah in particular.

Source: Radio Television Brunei