What is Sadaqah Jariyah?

While matters related to the mortal world are important, Islam encourages Muslims to focus on what lies ahead. While striving for success in the afterlife, Muslims are advised to choose moderation and a balance between Huqooq al-Ibaad and Huqooq . This balanced approach is reflected in various aspects of their faith, particularly in the practice of giving charity. Zakat is the third pillar of Islam and an annual obligation for every eligible Muslim. However, Islam also encourages Muslims to give Sadaqah, a voluntary charity that offers great spiritual rewards.

The concept of Sadaqah is not limited to providing financial assistance; it also promotes behavioral changes that benefit society. One of the most significant forms of Sadaqah is Sadaqah Jariyah. While death marks the end of human effort to earn spiritual rewards for the afterlife, Sadaqah Jariyah keeps a window open. In this article, we explore what is Sadaqah Jariyah and discuss why Ramadan is the perfect time for it.

What is Sadaqa Jariya, and what is its significance?

The word Sadaqah is derived from ‘Sidq’, which means sincerity. Sadaqah is a voluntary charity that stems from the kindness of the heart. The Prophet (ﷺ) was renowned for his kindness and generosity, which was boundless, particularly during Ramadan. Therefore, it is essential for Muslims to embrace the Sunnah of the Prophet (ﷺ) and make generosity a way of life.

“The Prophet (ﷺ) was the most generous of all the people, and he used to become more generous during Ramadan when Gabriel met him. Gabriel used to meet him every night during Ramadan to revise the Qur’an with Him. Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) then used to be more generous than the fast wind.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 3554)

Sadaqa Jariya’s definition is not restricted to financial assistance. It gives a whole new meaning to compassion. Random acts of kindness are Sadaqah. Planting trees, providing clean drinking water, creating shelters, building mosques, and interacting with people amiably qualifies as Sadaqah. 

The Prophet (ﷺ)  said: “Your smiling in the face of your brother is charity, commanding good and forbidding evil is charity, your giving directions to a man lost in the land is charity for you. Your seeing for a man with bad sight is a charity for you, your removal of a rock, a thorn or a bone from the road is charity for you. Your pouring what remains from your bucket into the bucket of your brother is charity for you.” (Jami` at-Tirmidhi, 1956)

Your Sadaqah is a life-changer

Different Forms of Sadaqah:

Sadaqah can take different forms, including the following:

• Monetary donations: financial help for orphans, widows, and deserving people.
• Display of kindness: making interactions with kindness, devoting time to friends and family, advising others sincerely, and helping others in routine matters.
• Sadaqah Jariyah: The Sadaqa Jariya definition tells us that it is a continuous act of kindness that accrues spiritual rewards even after a person’s demise.

The Significance of Sadaqah Jariyah

Human lives are fragile and mortal. According to the Quran:

“Every soul will taste death, and you will only be given your [full] compensation on the Day of Resurrection. So he who is drawn away from the Fire and admitted to Paradise has attained [his desire]. And what is the life of this world except the enjoyment of delusion.” (Surat ‘Āli `Imrān, 3:185)

Death almost completely ends a person’s opportunity to accumulate good deeds. However, Sadaqa Jariyah still benefits that individual:

The Prophet (ﷺ) said: “When a man dies, all his good deeds come to an end except three: Ongoing charity (Sadaqah Jariyah), beneficial knowledge, and a righteous son who prays for him.” (Sunan an-Nasa’I, 3651)

Thus, Sadaqah Jariyah continues to benefit a person long after death, providing spiritual rewards when needed the most.

What Qualifies as Sadaqah Jariyah?

The following are some ways you can donate Sadaqah Jariya:

• Giving a copy of the Quran to a person or a mosque
• Providing for an orphan
• Planting Trees
• Building mosques or hospitals
• Giving people access to water sources
• Teaching valuable skills

Benefits of Giving Sadaqah Jariya

Sadaqah Jariya is about benefitting others and receiving a great spiritual reward. It helps the whole society and offers a great return in the afterlife. So, donate Sadaqah Jariya to be eligible for continuous spiritual rewards.

The Quran tells us:

“The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed [of grain] which grows seven spikes; in each spike is a hundred grains. And Allah multiplies [His reward] for whom He wills. And Allah is all-encompassing and Knowing.” (Surat Al-Baqarah, 2:261)

Sadaqah Changes Lives

Give Your Sadaqah to Transparent Hands

Transparent Hands is one of Pakistan’s leading online crowdfunding platforms that focuses on providing surgical and medical assistance to deserving patients. We provide free medical camps surgeries, and arrange preventive healthcare sessions for underprivileged individuals. Access to quality healthcare is everyone’s right. Our platform provides comprehensive information about deserving patients and their progress. Transparent Hands collects and spends donations in compliance with the Sharia laws. So, you can give your Zakat, Sadaqah, and other donations with complete confidence.

Conclusion:

Islam prepares Muslims for the afterlife and guides their success in it. One way to maximize spiritual rewards is to give charity. While Zakat is the obligatory charity all eligible Muslims must give, Sadaqah is voluntary and offers great spiritual rewards. However, Sadaqah isn’t only about giving monetary assistance. It also encompasses politeness and kindness in routine behavior. Donating Sadaqah Jariyah is a great form of charity that continues giving people spiritual rewards long after their death. By giving Sadaqah, Muslims follow the Sunnah of the Prophet (ﷺ) and the guidelines of the Quran.

Give your Zakat, Sadaqah, and other donations to Transparent Hands to assist deserving patients while earning numerous spiritual rewards.

Read More:

What is Sadaqah Wajibah?
The Benefits of Giving Sadaqah on Friday in Islam