What Is Sadaqah? A Complete Guide to Voluntary Charity in Islam (2025)
What Is Sadaqah?
It is one of the voluntary charitable acts in Islam, which is not restricted to monetary aid alone. It encompasses acts of kindness, compassion and other ethical values (faith).
Regardless of whether you help a charity (صدقة) or assist an ailing person, you can do Sadaqah (صدقة) and consequently try to get closer to Allah (SWT) through positively changing people’s lives.
Where Sadaqah is encouraged, Zakat (الزكاة) is compulsory, but opting for it is not mandatory, alongside rendered aid as dictated (encouraged) by Quran (قرآن) and Hadith (حديث).
The Literal and Spiritual Meaning of Sadaqah
The Arabic root word ‘sadaqah’ derives from s-d-q (sidq) (صدق), and literally means ‘truth’ and ‘sincerity’.
Sadaqah is certainly an act embodying selflessly giving faith active expressions of loving religious devotion in action.
Sadaqah is much more than just giving money away–it’s an outward expression of your character and how deeply committed you are to your faith.”
Differences Between Zakat and Sadaqah
| Criteria | Zakat | Sadaqah |
| Obligation | Mandatory (Fard) | Voluntary (Nafl) |
| Timing | Once a year | Anytime |
| Percentage | 2.5% of wealth above Nisab | No fixed amount |
| Recipients | Specific groups outlined in Quran | Anyone in need |
| Purpose | Purification of wealth | Act of goodwill and faith |
Sadaqah has no specific measure and motivates continuous goodness all year round.
Types of Sadaqah in Islam
Here are different types of sadaqah that Muslims can engage in:
Sadaqah Maal (Monetary charity) صدقة المال
Giving money to the poor, building wells, or funding hospitals.
Sadaqah through Action (صدقة بالعمل)
Acts like helping a blind person, guiding someone, and resolving conflict.
Sadaqah through Words (صدقة بالكلمات)
Speaking kindly, offering support, or making dua for someone.
Sadaqah of Knowledge
Teaching the Qur’an, sharing Islamic Knowledge or educating people.
What Is Sadaqah Jariyah (Ongoing Charity) صدقة جارية?
Sadaqah Jariyah is a special kind of charity that continues to benefit others long after you’ve given it — even after your death.
“When a person dies, their deeds end except three: ongoing charity, beneficial knowledge, and a righteous child who prays for them.” – Hadith (Muslim)
Examples of Sadaqah Jariyah:
- Building a water well
- Supporting schools or hospitals
- Publishing Islamic books
- Planting trees
- Donating for long-term humanitarian projects
Why Is Sadaqah So Important in Islam?
- It promotes social justice
- It builds community bonds
- It purifies the soul of the giver
- It protects from calamity and evil
- It’s an act of gratitude toward Allah (SWT)
Benefits of Giving Sadaqah
In This World:
- Brings barakah (blessings)
- Increases sustenance
- Helps in difficult times
- Shields from misfortunes
In the Hereafter:
- Shade on the Day of Judgment
- Ongoing rewards with Sadaqah Jariyah
- Forgiveness of sins
- “Sadaqah extinguishes sins like water extinguishes fire.” – Hadith (Tirmidhi)
How to Give Sadaqah the Right Way
- With sincerity (not for show or praise)
- In private if possible
- Consistently, even in small amounts
- With good intentions and humility
- To those truly in need
Examples of Sadaqah Beyond Money
- Smiling at someone
- Helping carry someone’s groceries
- Removing harmful objects from the road
- Feeding animals
- Volunteering time
Every small good deed counts as Sadaqah.
How Is Sadaqah Used in Modern Times?
Modern Islamic charities use Sadaqah to:
- Build shelters for refugees
- Provide food packs in crisis zones
- Fund cancer treatment and hospitals
- Educate orphans
- Empower women and families through skill training
The Role of Sadaqah in Ramadan
The month of Ramadan is mercy and generosity. The Prophet used to give Sadaqah more frequently during this month.
“The Prophet (PBUH) was the most generous, and even more generous during Ramadan.” – Hadith (Bukhari)
Sadaqah in Ramadan multiplies in reward and is an ideal time for Sadaqah Jariyah contributions.
Sadaqah vs Sadaqah Jariyah – Key Differences
Duration
- Sadaqah: One-time benefit
- Sadaqah Jariyah: Long-term/ongoing benefit
Examples
- Sadaqah: Giving food, smiling, helping others
- Sadaqah Jariyah: Building water wells, schools, spreading knowledge
Reward
- Sadaqah: One-time reward
- Sadaqah Jariyah: Reward continues even after death
Who Can Receive Sadaqah?
- The poor and needy
- Orphans
- Widows
- Refugees
- Debt-ridden individuals
- Those striving in the path of Allah (SWT)
Inspirational Hadiths on Sadaqah
- Every act of goodness is charity.” – Sahih Muslim, Hadith 496
- “Smiling in your brother’s face is Sadaqah.” – Hadith (Tirmidhi)
- “Protect yourself from Hell-fire even by giving half a date in Sadaqah.” – Hadith (Bukhari)
FAQs About Sadaqah
What is the main difference between Zakat and Sadaqah?
Sadaqah has no limit in giving and is completely voluntary, while Zakat is a mandatory payment of 2.5% of surplus income.
Can I give Sadaqah to non-Muslims?
No, voluntary charity (Sadaqah) can be given to anyone in need of assistance regardless of any religion.
When is the best time to give Sadaqah?
No specific time, but the holy month of Ramadan, Fridays, and a person’s tough times are highly regarded.
Can I give Sadaqah Jariyah on behalf of someone deceased?
Of course, the deceased will benefit from unending rewards.
Is giving a smile really Sadaqah?
Yes! The Prophet (PBUH) said a smile is Sadaqah.
What qualifies as Sadaqah Jariyah?
Anything that has a long-term worth, such as wells, schools, and books.
Can I automate monthly Sadaqah?
Yes, many people have access to automated donations these days.
Is Sadaqah better in secret or public?
Anonymously is more rewarded; however, public Sadaqah has the potential to encourage others to give as well.
. Is Sadaqah accepted if given for fame?
No, intention is key. Sadaqah must be for Allah (SWT) alone.
Can I give Sadaqah instead of Zakat?
No, Zakat is obligatory. Sadaqah is extra and does not replace it.
Conclusion
Sadaqah embodies pureness of heart; Sadaqah goes beyond mere acts of charity.
While relinquishing anything that comes from the goodness of your heart can help create a better world, it’s essential to truly invoke empathy and compassion.
In today’s world plagued with disaster and poverty, every bit provided through Sadaqah can act as a lifeline for those in need.
Consistency is key, so remember to begin with small endeavours.
Your single act of charitable giving has the potential to brighten someone’s world and reward you in the Hereafter.
