It thus becomes clear that what must be given in these matters falls into three categories:

The first category is that in which the amount given is fixed, irrespective of the giver or the recipient, such as zakat al-fitr. Its prescribed amount is one sa‘, whether you give it to one person or to a group, whether a group gives it to one person, whether one person gives it to another, or whether a group gives it to a group. This is because the amount that must be given is specified in this case. As far as I know, this is agreed upon.

The second category is that in which both the amount given and the recipient are specified, as in the expiation for harm: the expiation for shaving one’s head while in consecration. The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said to Ka‘b ibn ‘Ujrah, may Allah be pleased with him: “Feed six needy people, giving each needy person half a sa‘.” (1) Accordingly, half a sa‘ must be given to each of the six needy people.

The third category is that in which the recipient is specified, but not the amount given, such as the expiation for an oath, the expiation for zihar, and the expiation for intercourse during the daytime in Ramadan: “Its expiation is to feed ten needy people from the average of what you feed your own families, or to clothe them, or to free a slave.” [al-Ma’idah 5:89]

Accordingly, we say to the person making such expiation: feed a needy person whatever you wish, even if it is only one mudd of wheat.

In this category, it is permissible to provide the needy with lunch or dinner, because Allah mentioned feeding without specifying its amount. Thus, whenever feeding is provided, in whatever manner, it suffices.