Dar Al-Ifta Egypt has answered several frequently asked religious questions ahead of the Prophet Muhammad’s birthday (Mawlid), clarifying the Islamic rulings on distributing Mawlid sweets using Zakat funds, fasting on the Prophet’s birthday, performing Sujood Al-Tilawah while traveling, and giving Zakat to relatives according to Islamic law.

Can Mawlid Sweets Be Distributed as Zakat?

Dar Al-Ifta Egypt confirmed that distributing Mawlid sweets to the poor does not fulfill the obligation of Zakat.

The institution explained that Zakat should be given directly to eligible recipients so they can use it to meet their essential needs, such as food, medicine, or other necessities. Therefore, providing sweets instead of money does not fulfill the intended purpose of Zakat.

However, distributing Mawlid sweets is permissible as charity, a gift, or a voluntary act of kindness, but it cannot be counted as obligatory Zakat.

Is Fasting on the Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday Permissible?

Dar Al-Ifta stated that fasting on the Prophet Muhammad’s birthday is permissible and recommended as an expression of gratitude to Allah for sending His Messenger.

The institution cited the authentic narration in which the Prophet (peace be upon him) explained that he fasted on Mondays because it was the day he was born.

It also referred to the Prophet’s approval of fasting on Ashura as an act of gratitude to Allah, indicating that fasting on days associated with great divine blessings is permissible.

Is Celebrating Mawlid Considered an Innovation?

Dar Al-Ifta clarified that celebrating the Prophet’s birthday is not considered a blameworthy religious innovation, provided it is free from prohibited practices.

The institution noted that expressing joy through family gatherings, sharing food, giving charity, and remembering the Prophet's life are permissible ways of commemorating the occasion.

What Is the Ruling on Sujood Al-Tilawah While Traveling?

Dar Al-Ifta explained that Sujood Al-Tilawah (Prostration of Recitation) is a recommended Sunnah, not an obligation.

If a traveler recites a verse requiring prostration while on a bus, train, or other means of transportation, they may simply gesture with their head while remaining seated, even if they are not facing the Qibla.

The institution added that anyone unable to perform the gesture incurs no sin, since Sujood Al-Tilawah is not obligatory.

Can Zakat Be Given to Relatives?

Islamic scholars explained that Zakat may be given to relatives who qualify as eligible recipients, provided they are not among those whose financial support is already obligatory upon the giver.

Parents, children, and one's spouse cannot receive Zakat because supporting them is a personal obligation.

However, brothers, sisters, uncles, aunts, and other relatives who are genuinely in need may receive Zakat if they meet the conditions of eligibility.

Scholars also emphasized that giving Zakat to needy relatives combines the reward of Zakat with the reward of maintaining family ties, making it one of the most virtuous forms of charity.

Key Fatwas from Dar Al-Ifta Today

• Mawlid sweets cannot be counted as Zakat.
• Distributing Mawlid sweets is permissible as voluntary charity or a gift.
• Fasting on the Prophet Muhammad's birthday is permissible and recommended.
• Celebrating Mawlid is permissible if free from prohibited practices.
• Travelers may gesture instead of performing Sujood Al-Tilawah.
• Zakat may be given to eligible relatives whose financial support is not obligatory on the giver.

Can Mawlid sweets be given as Zakat?
No. They do not fulfill the obligation of Zakat.

Is fasting on the Prophet Muhammad's birthday allowed?
Yes. Dar Al-Ifta considers it a recommended act of worship.

Can I perform Sujood Al-Tilawah by gesturing while traveling?
Yes. Travelers may gesture with their heads while remaining seated.

Can I give Zakat to my brother or sister?
Yes, if they are eligible recipients and you are not financially responsible for them.

Can I give Zakat to my parents or children?
No. Their financial support is already your obligation under Islamic law.