Sadaqah is charity given voluntarily without seeking anything in return, solely for the sake of pleasing and getting closer to Allah. Voluntary charitable acts towards others fall under Sadaqah. Therefore, Sadaqah is not strictly monetary or physical. Besides monetary charity, Sadaqah can also include the spreading of knowledge, giving one’s time, and any other voluntary act of kindness. Even something as simple as a smile is considered Sadaqah. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said: “Your smile for your brother is a charity.” (Tirmidhi)

A smile has the power to uplift someone’s mood, spread positivity, and strengthen relationships within a community. It costs nothing but can have a profound impact on others, making them feel seen, valued, and appreciated. Through something as effortless as a smile, we can brighten someone’s day and fulfill the essence of Sadaqah, which is to give without expecting anything in return.

Acts of Sadaqah help maintain positive relationships between members of society. Sadaqah also highlights the significance of generosity and kindness towards others, values that are essential in Islam. Sadaqah is much more than just charity; it is a form of spiritual growth and self-purification.

How does Sadaqah purify your wealth and soul?

It is widely believed that sadaqah has the power to purify not only one's wealth but their soul as well. Sadaqah helps eliminate greed and selfishness in order to strengthen Taqwa (God- consciousness). Sadaqah not only aids those receiving it, but it also blesses the giver. Sadaqah does not deplete wealth in any way. On the contrary, it brings barakah (blessings) into a person's life, and even increases wealth and prosperity. 

What are the rewards of Sadaqah?

Sadaqah acts as a form of protection, a shield against harm and misfortune. The Qur'an highlights that sadaqah has the power to invite Allah’s help during times of difficulty. When a person gives with genuine intention to seek Allah’s pleasure, they unlock the possibility of great blessings. These blessings may manifest as protection from particular hardships or as the strength to endure and overcome them. For example, in challenging circumstances, the charity a person has given in the past may become a means for Allah’s assistance, helping them navigate through their hardships. Sadaqah holds the power to unite many people. Building a community where every individual contributes, no matter how small the act.

Sadaqah encourages us to shift our focus from our own desires to the well-being of others. It helps us move away from chasing material wealth and instead building a deeper sense of spiritual fulfillment. The more we give, the more we come to appreciate what really matters in life. We begin to see that the happiness we find in giving is far greater than the fleeting pleasure of accumulating things. Through Sadaqah, we grow into kinder, more generous people, forging stronger bonds with those around us and becoming the best versions of ourselves.

Sadaqah Jariyah (ongoing charity): 

A great form of sadaqah is sadaqah jariyah. This is sadaqah that benefits the giver even after they have passed away. For example, building mosques, schools or building a water fountain and placing it in a public place. Anyone that drinks from that fountain and benefits is blessing the person that built it. The beauty of sadaqah jariyah is the rewards continue to accumulate for the giver long after their lifetime. This form of charity is a timeless investment, providing benefits both to the giver and to the community.

Sadaqah is a truly beautiful and transformative act. It doesn’t just help those in need, it also cleanses our hearts, brings us closer to each other, and strengthens our connection with Allah. Whether through a simple kind gesture or a larger charitable contribution, Sadaqah helps us grow in so many ways, spiritually, emotionally, and socially. And no matter how small the act of giving, it is always treasured by Allah. Every little bit counts and has great value in Allah’s eyes.