What is Sadaqah?
- HasanaH
Islam is a faith inclusive of positive life values, such as hope, peace, love, and service to humanity. Among these values is Sadaqah, embodying the act of selfless charity, generosity, and kindness to others. In modern times, Sadaqah has come to mean charitable acts that are voluntarily given. Not only does the act of Sadaqah provide proof of one’s faith (Iman) but acts of charity and kindness also provide the individual who gives Sadaqah feelings of inner peace and joy.
The meaning behind Sadaqah
In its simplest definition, Sadaqah means giving to others for the sake of God. 'Sadaqah' originates from the root ‘sidq' which translates to 'truthfulness.' The words derived from this root word signify 'faithfulness' and 'righteousness.' At the time of the Quran's revelation and Prophet Muhammad's (upon him be peace) life, it was used interchangeably with the term Zakat. Today Sadaqah and Zakat represent two different acts of charity. While Zakat is one of the five fundamental pillars in Islam, making it mandatory, Sadaqah is given voluntarily regardless of social status or income levels.
Different types of Sadaqah
Typically, when someone thinks of charitable acts, they automatically associate these acts with money or gifting items (such as food or clothing). However, there are many different types of Sadaqah, which makes the act of Sadaqah open to every Muslim.
Types of Sadaqah
- Making/providing prayer (dua) for another
- Spreading knowledge among people who would otherwise not have access to such information
- Acts of kindness, such as smiling, greeting, and taking time to engage with people your meet
- Helping the poor and others who cannot help themselves
- Making time for your spouse, parents, or children
- Visiting the sick or disabled
- Forgiving people who ask for your forgiveness
- Providing aid with no hidden motives
- Donating money or other charitable items for those in need
- Volunteering your time for a worthy or charitable cause
- Providing encouraging words to those in need
- Tarbiyyah (nurturing children and raising them with good manners and values essential to Sadaqah)
- Resisting evil deeds and temptation
- Being respectful to elders and others
Who can give Sadaqah?
There are no rules or guidelines for giving Sadaqah or for who receives it. Unlike Zakat, there are also no financial requirements to be met to give Sadaqah. Anyone who has the means to provide Sadaqah and who feels compelled to do so can give it. There is also no limit or restriction on the type or timing for providing these charitable acts. While it can be given any time of the year, many increase Sadaqah during the holy month of Ramadan. The only consideration pertaining to giving Sadaqah is to make sure the act or contribution is not associated with any self-serving expectations.
Who deserves Sadaqah?
Any act of Sadaqah is designed to help the community maintain a decent standard of living and to provide basic life necessities for the poor. A homeless person, neighbor in need, stranger or lost traveler all deserve and are eligible to receive Sadaqah in different forms.
Sadaqah is a necessary component of Islam through which a Muslim seeks the Pleasure of Allah (SWT) by helping out the poor and those in need. Far more than donating a generous proportion of individual wealth, Sadaqah acts are designed to improve society and help every community member. As such, it is not limited to a particular group of people, but rather every believer must carry out acts of Sadaqah, as it covers a wide range of honorable actions and deeds.
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