The Difference Between Sadaqah and Sadaqah Jariyah: Giving for Now and Forever
What Is Sadaqah?
In Islam, Sadaqah refers to voluntary charity given out of compassion, love, and generosity. An act of kindness benefits the receiver and purifies the giver's heart. Sadaqah can take many forms, including monetary donations, feeding the hungry, clothing for those in need, or even smiling at someone feeling down. It's a one-time act that meets immediate needs.
Although Sadaqah is undoubtedly extraordinarily impactful and carries immense rewards, the impact is usually limited to the moment it is given. Once the resources run out, the immediate need often returns.
What Is Sadaqah Jariyah?
Unlike Sadaqah, which is a one-time act of charity, Sadaqah Jariyah represents a form of ongoing charity that benefits people over an extended period. The word Jariyah translates to "flowing" or "ongoing," highlighting the enduring impact of this type of charity. Contributions made through Sadaqah Jariyah continue to help others and generate rewards for the donor, even after they have passed away. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) stated, "When a person dies, all their deeds end except three: a continuing charity, beneficial knowledge, or a righteous child who prays for them." (Sahih Muslim).
Examples of Sadaqah Jariyah:
- Building a water well in a drought-stricken area.
- Funding the construction of a school or a mosque.
- Planting trees that provide shade, fruit, or help the environment.
One powerful example of Sadaqah Jariyah is creating a water well in a village. While donating food or clothing offers immediate assistance, a water well supplies clean water to an entire community for years, which can save lives and help prevent disease.
Both Sadaqah Jariyah and Sadaqah differ in their overall impact and duration.
Why Choose One Over the Other?
Deciding between Sadaqah and Sadaqah Jariyah comes down to your intentions and the kind of impact you wish to have. If you aim to address immediate and pressing needs, Sadaqah is an effective means to make a difference right now. On the other hand, if you aspire to establish a lasting legacy that continues to benefit others long after you are gone, Sadaqah Jariyah provides a way to generate a lasting ripple of goodness over time.
How to Give Sadaqah and Sadaqah Jariyah
There are many ways to contribute to both Sadaqah and Sadaqah Jariyah, and no amount is too small. What matters most is the intention behind your giving. Below are some actionable steps for both forms of charity:
Ways to Give Sadaqah:
- Donate money directly to individuals in need or through trustworthy organizations.
- Provide food, clothing, or shelter to those less fortunate.
- Offer non-monetary acts like volunteering your time or even offering emotional support.
Ways to Give Sadaqah Jariyah:
- Contribute to projects that build wells, schools, mosques, or hospitals.
- Fund educational initiatives that spread knowledge and improve lives.
- Plant trees or contribute to environmental efforts that benefit communities.
By focusing on ongoing projects like building a school or funding a scholarship, your Sadaqah Jariyah will reward you as long as people benefit from it, even after your passing.
Muslim Hands USA Sadaqah Jariyah Projects
Our Sadaqah-Jariyah approved projects span across all our areas of work including education, water, livelihoods, and more.
Whether you choose to build a well for a needy community in Mali or provide sewing kits and vocational training to widows in Pakistan, your support will help change thousands of lives for generations to come. We are honored to facilitate your generous Sadaqah Jariyah contributions and help you and your loved ones creating a legacy that will last.
Your Charity, Your Legacy
Giving in Islam is not just about helping others; it's about creating a legacy that benefits both the giver and the recipient. Your Sadaqah can provide immediate relief to those struggling, but your Sadaqah Jariyah can make a lasting impact that benefits future generations. Whether you give Sadaqah for its immediate rewards or Sadaqah Jariyah for its long-term benefits, your charity will be a source of blessing and growth in this world and hereafter.
Choose how you want to make a difference today and leave behind a legacy of continuous giving that transforms lives.
