Giving charity is an important aspect of a believer’s faith in Islam. The act of giving charity is emphasised in the Quran as well as within the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be Upon Him). The act of giving is a reminder to every Muslim that wealth is a temporary desire, sent by Allah to share with those less fortunate.
The benefits of donating to charity in Islam are vast. It’s a great opportunity to gain rewards and also serve as a benefit to the one who is less fortunate. There are many forms of giving charity in Islam. One of the most common ones after giving Sadaqah is Sadaqah Jariyah.
What is Sadaqah Jariyah?
The Arabic translation of the word Sadaqah Jariyah means a ‘flowing’ or ‘running’ charity. Known as the good deed that never dies, Sadaqah Jariyah is a charity made to always continue, with long-lasting impacts on its donation. Sadaqah Jariyah can be carried out on behalf of a deceased person who is no longer with you, so that they may continue to gain the rewards of this form of charity beyond this world.
"When a person dies, his deeds come to an end except for three things: Sadaqah Jariyah (a continuous charity), knowledge by which people benefit, or a pious child who prays for him.” [Sahih Muslim]
What is the Difference Between Sadaqah and Sadaqah Jariyah?
Though the names sound similar, Sadaqah is a different form of giving to Sadaqah Jariyah, with Sadaqah being an act of giving short-term charity. An example of this would be to buy a meal for a homeless person, which will see them through one day. Sadaqah Jariyah however, is the act of giving long-term charity, such as donating water wells to a community that lacks access to clean water, supporting them for months and years to come. The difference between Sadaqah and Sadaqah Jariyah is the longevity of the impact.
What Are the Acts of Sadaqah Jariyah
There are many things a Muslim may do that are considered forms of Sadaqah Jariyah. Sadaqah Jariyah examples include the following:
Sponsoring an orphan – this helps a child in the long term, becoming an act of Sadaqah Jariyah.
Building a well / water pump – with many communities around the world not having access to clear water, donating this form Sadaqah Jariyah ensures long term sustenance.
Funding an education for a student– this education can be carried forward to help others through the means of educating just one.
Helping to build an institute - such as a school or hospital for generations to benefit from long-term access to these places.
Planting crops - Food-bearing crops, like water, can sustain communities for months and years, therefore qualifying as Sadaqah Jariyah.
These are just some of the many acts of Sadaqah Jariyah, but anything that benefits someone in need for an extended period of time may be considered Sadaqah Jariyah.
Any act of charity is seen as a good deed by Allah, especially Sadaqah Jariyah, as it continues to give support to someone who needs it. Whilst this is true, there are some causes that may be considered more of a priority than others, including the act of donating a water well or planting food-bearing crops. Hunger and thirst are deadly issues that still affect so many people around the world, but every donation towards easing the effects of hunger and thirst has the power to save a life immediately.
Why do Muslims Give Sadaqah Jariyah?
Muslims give Sadaqah Jariyah to help those in need. Muslims who give charity are rewarded for doing so, but the rewards for donating Sadaqah Jariyah are greater because, as long as the act of charity benefits someone, the donor will be rewarded. These rewards can come in the form of personal satisfaction, spiritual growth, and the pleasure of knowing your contribution will make a lasting impact.
“Surely the men who give Sadaqah and the women who give Sadaqah and have advanced a good loan to Allah (SWT); for them, it will be multiplied, and for them, there is a noble reward.” [Quran 57:18]
How Much Time and Money Should I Invest into Sadaqah Jariyah?
Every Muslim should work as much as they can to carry out Sadaqah Jariyah. Since this means of charity doesn’t have to come in the form of a monetary contribution, finances don’t have to impact someone’s ability to engage in acts of Sadaqah Jariyah. Islam is built upon the foundation of redistributing wealth to help work towards a fair existence that’s free from poverty. As a result, all Muslims should work to dedicate their lives to this global mission.
Can Sadaqah Jariyah be Given in the Name of a Deceased Person?
It’s quite common for Muslims to give Sadaqah Jariyah for someone else, and on behalf of loved ones who have passed away. This is because it’s believed to benefit the souls of the deceased and earn ongoing rewards for them.
Are There Specific Times When Giving Sadaqah Jariyah is More Rewarding?
Sadaqah Jariyah is always rewarding; however, there are certain times and occasions in Islam that may enhance its reward. This may include the holy month of Ramadan, on Fridays, or on special Islamic holidays like Eid.
How to Give Sadaqah Jariyah
You can donate your Sadaqah on behalf of yourself or a loved one you’ve recently lost to Orphans in Need. Support any of our appeals such as our Sponsor an Orphan Appeal to make a lasting impact today.
