The concept of Sadaqah, which is charity, is a cornerstone of Islam, establishing a foundation for a compassionate and supportive society. Sadaqah isn’t only a religious act; it’s also a powerful tool for promoting social justice and alleviating the hardships of those in need. This article explores the types of Sadaqah, including both obligatory and voluntary, and how Muslims can give in ways that benefit society and earn rewards in both this life and the hereafter.
What is obligatory Sadaqah?
Obligatory Sadaqah, also known as Zakat, is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. Muslims are required by Allah to pay a certain percentage of their wealth annually to those eligible. Zakat comes with specific rules and conditions, including reaching a minimum threshold (nisab) and maintaining the wealth for a year.
What is voluntary Sadaqah?
Voluntary Sadaqah is a non-obligatory donation made by a Muslim out of freewill and kindness. This type of Sadaqah represents one of the highest forms of giving, where Muslims willingly spend from their wealth, fostering love and compassion in their hearts, bringing them closer to Allah.
Types and forms of voluntary Sadaqah
Voluntary Sadaqah encompasses a range of acts of giving, such as:
- Feeding the Hungry – Providing food to those in need is a primary form of Sadaqah, significantly easing the hardships of the poor.
- Orphan Sponsorship – Supporting orphans is one of the most rewarding voluntary Sadaqah acts, as it provides them with a dignified life.
- Building mosques and schools – These Sadaqah projects spread faith and knowledge, with continuous rewards for the donor even after they pass away.
- Water provision and well digging – Access to clean water greatly improves health and the environment.
The Best Forms of Sadaqah: Ongoing Sadaqah (Sadaqah Jariyah)
Definition and Importance of Sadaqah Jariyah
Sadaqah Jariyah refers to charitable acts that provide lasting benefits, which continue to generate rewards for the giver even after their passing. This type of Sadaqah is among the most rewarding as it provides ongoing support to communities and generates continuous blessings. Examples of Sadaqah Jariyah include the building of schools and houses, the digging of wells, the planting of trees, and other long-term resources that benefit society.
Examples of Sadaqah Jariyah and its Impact on Society
Some best examples of Sadaqah Jariyah include:
- Building hospitals and health centres – These facilities provide medical care for communities over the long term, improving public health and reducing the spread of disease. There is also the donation of medical equipment and devices to save a lot of lives.
- Islamic Endowment (Waqf) – This traditional Sadaqah Jariyah model involves dedicating assets or properties whose proceeds fund charity initiatives such as campaigns to support schools or orphanages.
- Tree-planting: Planting trees benefits people and nature alike as trees offer shade and food, and help to improve the environment.
How to give Sadaqah effectively?
- Cash Donations – Cash donations are among the simplest ways to give Sadaqah, allowing donors to quickly provide financial support to those in need through reliable and approved resources.
- In-Kind Donations: Clothing and Basic Needs – Voluntary Sadaqah can also include donations of items like clothing, food and household essentials. In-kind donations are especially helpful during colder seasons, where warm clothing and blankets can make a significant difference.
- Islamic Endowment (Waqf) – Waqf is a form of Sadaqah Jariyah where assets or properties are set aside for charitable purposes, like building hospitals or schools.
