What is the preference between paying Zakat al-Fitr for the mother versus the father?
Chapter on Zakat al-Fitr
Al-Mughni
Book of Zakat
Primary text
The Fitr for the mother takes precedence over the father's Fitr because the mother is prioritized in terms of righteous treatment (Birr). This is evidenced by the Prophet's response to the Bedouin who asked whom he should treat kindly, prioritizing the mother three times before mentioning the father. Additionally, the mother is considered weaker in terms of earning capacity.
Supporting text
An alternative view suggests prioritizing the father based on the Prophet's saying, "You and your wealth belong to your father." Following this, priority is given to the grandfather, then the nearest relatives according to the order of residuary heirs (Asabat) in inheritance.