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Sadaqah in Islam is a form of voluntary charity given to seek Allah’s pleasure and blessings.
This act of kindness can take many forms, from monetary donations to simple acts of compassion. It includes the spirit of generosity and selflessness in Islam.
“Verily those who give Sadaqah, men, and women, and lend Allah a goodly loan, it shall be increased manifold, and theirs shall be an honorable good reward.”
(Surah Al-Hadid: 18)
Sadaqah literally means righteousness. Sadaqah originates from the root word sidq '(s-d-q, ص د ق)' which means 'truthfulness or sincerity.' The word Sadaqah derived from this root signifies the affirmation of sincere faithfulness.
Sadaqah in Islam represents a virtuous deed or an act of kindness performed without expecting anything in return. This charity isn't limited to financial assistance; it can be as simple as greeting someone with a smile or offering a helping hand.
Sadaqah exemplifies sincere faith, with the belief that the angels of Allah are recording good deeds for mercy on the day of resurrection.
Here are the different types of Sadaqah:
Type of Sadaqah | Definition | Examples |
The continuous charity benefiting others even after death |
| |
Sadaqah Nafilah | Voluntary charity beyond obligatory acts |
|
Sadaqah Wajibah | Obligatory charity in Islam |
Sadaqah strengthens one's faith and brings happiness to both the giver and the receiver, whether the donation is monetary, material, or spiritual.
Here are some significant benefits of Sadaqah:
According to the Sadaqah Hadith of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH),
“Sadaqah extinguishes sin as water extinguishes fire”
(Tirmidhi)
Contributing to Sadaqah is a lasting gesture that can take various forms and methods.
Here are some practical guidelines on how to give Sadaqah:
1. Regular Giving: Sadaqah should become a regular practice, ingrained into our daily routine rather than a sporadic occurrence.
2. Sincerity in Giving: Ensure that Sadaqah is given with pure intentions solely for the sake of pleasing Allah, without any ulterior motives for personal gain or acknowledgment.
3. Give According to Means: Sadaqah should be offered within one's financial capacity, avoiding any strain or hardship.
4. Choose Trustworthy Recipients: Direct Sadaqah to reputable and reliable organizations known for their transparent use of donations towards intended purposes.
5. Practice Secret Giving: In line with Islamic teachings, giving Sadaqah in secrecy is highly encouraged. Doing so enhances the sincerity of the act and prevents the desire for recognition or praise from others.
In Islam, Sadaqah encompasses various kinds of Sadaqah, each reflecting the true spirit of generosity and kindness.
Here are some of the different examples of Sadaqah:
1. Offering Dua: Praying for someone, whether they are a loved one or a stranger, is a simple yet profound form of Sadaqah.
2. Passing on Knowledge: Sharing knowledge with the community or those who cannot afford to obtain it otherwise is also considered Sadaqah.
3. Giving Advice: Providing wise and reasonable advice to someone younger or in need is another form of Sadaqah.
4. A Warm Smile: A genuine smile can uplift someone's spirits and is a simple act spent in charity.
5. Providing Aid: Helping others without expecting anything in return is a generous form of Sadaqah.
6. Giving Time: Spending time with parents and significant people in one’s life is a valuable form of Sadaqah.
7. Tarbiyyah: Nurturing and raising children with good manners and values is an essential type of Sadaqah.
8. Being Patient: Exercising patience with others and maintaining faith in Allah is considered a benefit of charity.
9. Having a Good Influence: Guiding misguided individuals to follow the path of Allah is one of the most important forms of Sadaqah.
10. Resisting Evil Deeds: Avoiding participation in harmful activities, such as violence or cruelty, is also a form of Sadaqah.
11. Talking Softly: Speaking kind words in a gentle tone, avoiding arrogance and rudeness, is an act of Sadaqah.
12. Granting Forgiveness: Forgiving those who sincerely seek forgiveness is considered Sadaqah.
13. Being Respectful: Showing respect to both elders and youngsters is a form of Sadaqah.
14. Being Happy for Others: Sharing in others’ happiness without envy or jealousy is also a form of Sadaqah.
15. Visiting the Sick: Visiting and caring for the sick is a type of Sadaqah.
16. Removing Harmful Things from the Path: Removing obstacles like stones or fallen branches from the road to prevent accidents is a form of Sadaqah.
17. Guiding Someone: Leading someone misguided onto the right path is one of the greatest ways of charity in Islam.
Here is the difference between Zakat and Sadaqah;
Aspect | Sadaqah | Zakat |
Type | Voluntary | Obligatory |
Flexibility | No specific rules or amounts | Specific Calculation: Calculated as 2.5% of a Muslim’s qualifying wealth |
Recipients | Both Muslims and non-Muslims | Specific categories of people defined in the Quran (Masarif-e-Zakat) |
Purpose | Primarily aimed at seeking Allah’s pleasure and protection |
|
Timings | Any time | When the wealth has been held for a lunar year (Hawl) |
In conclusion, Sadaqah in Islam, brings blessings in this life and the hereafter. Its diverse forms include many impactful deeds, from Sadaqah Jariyah (ongoing charitable acts) to Sadaqah Nafilah (supererogatory charity).
Understanding the distinction between Zakat and Sadaqah is essential for making informed and meaningful contributions. Practicing Sadaqah in our daily lives benefits others, purifies our souls, and draws us closer to Allah.
Anyone, regardless of their financial status, can give Sadaqah, and it can be directed to anyone in need.
Yes, Sadaqah can be given to both Muslims and non-Muslims.
There is no fixed amount of Sadaqah to give from your salary; you can give as much or as little as you are able, at any time. However, it is important to ensure that your Sadaqah reaches the right person in need.
Yes, you can give Sadaqah on behalf of the deceased. Doing so can benefit the deceased by increasing their rewards and blessings, as acts of charity continue to provide ongoing benefits.
Sadaqah Jariyah is a long-lasting act of kindness that continuously earns rewards from Allah (SWT) even after death continues and provides benefits.
WRITTEN BY
Ali Raza (Charity and Philanthropy)
Ali Raza holds a Master of Arts in Islamic Studies and is an expert in Islamic theology and jurisprudence. Specializing in Zakat, Sadaqah, and other Islamic donations, Ali's writings provide valuable insights into the religious and ethical aspects of charity. His work for Pakistan Sweet Homes aims to educate and inspire readers to support orphan care and charitable initiatives, making him a key contributor to the organization's mission.
Ali Raza holds a Master of Arts in Islamic Studies and is an expert in Islamic theology and jurisprudence. Specializing in Zakat, Sadaqah, and other Islamic donations, Ali's writings provide valuable insights into the religious and ethical aspects of charity. His work for Pakistan Sweet Homes aims to educate and inspire readers to support orphan care and charitable initiatives, making him a key contributor to the organization's mission.
