Sadaqah vs Sadaqah Jariyah: Planting Seeds for Eternal Reward

Sadaqah (Charity): Its Definition and Types

Sadaqah (Also written as Sadaka or Sadaqa) is a broad term that refers to anything a person gives from their wealth as a way of seeking closeness to Allah.

Difference between Obligatory Sadaqah and Voluntary Sadaqah

A common question among Muslims is the difference between Sadaqah and Zakat.

Obligatory Sadaqah:

• Zakat: An obligatory act of charity in Islam with set amounts and specific recipients outlined in Islamic law. 
• Zakat al-Fitr (Fitra): Also known as Sadaqah-tul Fitr is a compulsory charity given at the end of Ramadan. It purifies the fast and supports those in need.

Voluntary Sadaqah:

• Includes Sadaqah, gifts, donations, endowments (waqf), and other voluntary contributions. 
• Voluntary Sadaqah can be given at any time, in any amount, to anyone in need. 

Closely related concepts 

Gifts (hibah), presents (hadīyah), and grants (ʿaṭiyyah) are all forms of giving without expecting anything in return. These acts of kindness are encouraged in Islam. Today, giving Sadaqah online makes it easier to support noble causes at any time, from anywhere.

Sadaqah Jāriyah (Ongoing Charity): Its Meaning and Legitimacy

Sadaqah Jariyah is a form of charity that continues to benefit the giver even after death - through wealth, actions, or words, as long as it provides ongoing benefit. 

Different Types of Sadaqah Jāriyah

1. Waqf (Endowment)

Donating an asset and dedicating its benefit for the Muslims, such as a mosque, Islamic book, farmland, or shelter. 

Evidence: ʿUmar ibn al-Khaṭṭāb (May Allah be pleased with him) said: “O Messenger of Allah, I acquired land in Khaybar which is more valuable to me than any other. What do you advise?” The Prophet ﷺ said: "If you wish, keep the asset and donate its benefit." (Narrated by al-Bukhārī and Muslim) 

Check out Endless Rewards Waqf program by NZF Australia if you would like to donate Sadaqah Jariyah towards this cause.  

2. Spreading Beneficial Knowledge

Such as printing Qur'āns, distributing Islamic books, holding study circles (halaqah), or teaching Islamic sciences. 

One such initiative is the Recite to Rise education program by NZF. This program helps teach the words of Allah and the legacy of our beloved Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. 

3. Community Service Projects

• Digging wells 
• Building schools or Islamic centers 
• Equipping medical clinics 
• Creating educational or media platforms serving Islam and Muslims 

Purpose of Sadaqah Jāriyah

• To earn ongoing rewards after death 
• To benefit the Muslim community and lift hardship 
• To revive the Sunnah and establish Islamic values in society 

Giving Sadaqah Jariyah on behalf of a deceased loved one ensures good deeds continue to be recorded in their name. 

NZF Australia enables online giving, including donating on behalf of others. If you would like to make a sadaqah donation, there are programs like Endless Rewards Waqf, Recite to Rise, and Brighter Future Orphan Program that offer opportunities to fund local needs. 

Many choose to give Sadaqah Jariyah during Ramadan or on blessed days like Friday to maximise their reward. Scholars agree that good deeds are multiplied based on the time and place.  Regarding giving Sadaqah on Friday, Tābiʿ Ka‘b al-Ahbar said: "Charity on Friday is better than on other days."

Supporting Orphans

Helping orphans through programs like Brighter Futures is a noble and blessed act in Islam. Giving Sadaqah for orphans ensures they are cared for with love and kindness. Making this a regular habit brings great reward and teaches generosity. 

Hadith: "I will be like this in Jannah with the person who takes care of an orphan," said the Prophet ﷺ while holding his index and middle fingers together. (Al-Bukhārī) 

Sadaqah vs General Charity

The main difference lies in the intention. General charity can be for general purpose, while Sadaqah is specifically given with intention to seek Allah’s pleasure. Sadaqah Jariyah is the highest form, as its benefit continues beyond one's lifetime. 

How Much Sadaqah to Give?

There is no set limit. You can give: 

• $20 to help a child with lunch for a week 
• $2000 to help an orphan memorise the Qur’an for a year 

Hadith: "Protect yourselves from the Hellfire, even if it is with half a date (in charity)." (Al-Bukhārī) 

Summary

Sadaqah is a powerful form of worship, whether given once or regularly. Sadaqah Jariyah is even more special: its reward continues even after your death. 

Support long-term charity, spread knowledge, care for orphans these are investments in your Hereafter. Waqf is one of the greatest ways to do this. 

Establish your Sadaqah Jariyah. Support the poor and needy. Leave a legacy that lives on. 

NZF Australia makes it easy with trusted programs like: 

• Endless Rewards Waqf 
• Recite to Rise 
• Brighter Futures 

Give sincerely. Give consistently. Let your charity live on.