Sadaqah, a voluntary act of charity, holds enormous importance and great benefits for both individuals and society. The major purpose of giving Sadaqah is to gain Allah's Pleasure.

The importance of Sadaqah has been repeatedly highlighted in the Quran and Hadiths. Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) emphasised the benefits of giving Sadaqah in a number of sayings. In Jami` at-Tirmidhi, it is mentioned that “Sadaqah (charity) extinguishes sins just as water extinguishes fire”. Another example of the importance of Sadaqah has also been mentioned in Jami` at-Tirmidhi as, “Give the Sadaqah without delay, for it stands in the way of calamity.”

Besides this, Allah promises rewards for those who do good. In Surah Al-Maidah (Ayah 09), it is mentioned that, “Allah has promised those who believe and do deeds of righteousness, that for them there is forgiveness and a great reward (i.e., Paradise).” This discussion represents the actual importance of Sadaqah - how it helps both the giver and the recipient.

What is the Meaning of Sadaqah?

The word Sadaqah derives from an Arabic word, “Sidq,” meaning sincerity. It impacts the far-reaching effects on both the distributor and receiver. In Islam, the actual meaning of Sadaqah is giving more than just a financial donation; it is considered an act of kindness without expecting anything in return.

The beauty of this charitable act lies in its accessibility. For example, everyone, without a specific financial condition, can participate in this righteous act of kindness. However, a continuous act of charity is called Sadaqah jariyah.

What are the Benefits of Giving Sadaqah?

Giving Sadaqah comes with numerous benefits. The major ones are highlighted here:

1. Sadaqah Cures Illness and Prevents Death

The Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) said in Saheeh al Jaami that, “treat your sick ones with charity.” Giving Sadaqah is considered the best practice to treat your loved ones when they fall ill. The best way to give Sadaqah for the cure of illness is to distribute raw meat, meal, or cash, depending on the immediate need of people.

2. Sadaqah Opens the Doors To Jannah

Allah offers numerous ways for believers to enter heaven after death. Giving Sadaqah is one way. One of the eight gates of Jannah is known as Baab As-Sadaqah. This door will only allow those believers to enter who give charity or Sadaqah in the way of Allah. So, giving Sadaqah not only benefits you in this world, but also gives you the virtue of entering paradise.

3. Sadaqah Purifies Your Soul

The purification of the soul is one of the quietest and most profound rewards of giving charity or Sadaqah. It purifies the soul by eliminating negative traits, such as selfishness, greed, and arrogance. At the same time, it enhances positive qualities, such as humbleness, integrity, and sincerity in one’s soul and personality.

4. Sadaqah Helps You Earn Rewards After Death

Giving Sadaqah, such as Sadaqah jariyah, is a way to earn reward even after death. People can give Sadawah Jariyah even in their own name or that of the loved ones who passed away. The best examples of Sadaqah Jariyah to get continuous rewards include building a school, a masjid, a well, and a hospital. The beauty of Sadaqah Jariyah is that you get a reward every time it is used for the betterment of people.

What is the Best Time to Give Sadaqah?

The beauty of giving Sadqah also lies in the fact that it does not require any specific time to be donated. Instead, it encourages individuals to distribute Sadaqah whenever they want or when someone really needs their help. You can give it on a daily basis based on your affordability. However, it has been seen that most people need to fulfill their needs in Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, marriages, childbirth, illness, and a certain time of hardship. So, it is our duty to take care of such people among our acquaintances and help them whenever they need it.

Give Your Sadaqah to Sundas Foundation

Sundas Foundation is a non-profit organization that supports patients with thalassemia, Hemophilia, and other blood diseases. The amount of your donations or Sadaqah is used to provide these patients with all the basics and necessary treatments. The foundation is operating through 12 centers in the country, including Lahore, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Sialkot, Daska, Faisalabad, Sargodha, Wazirabad, Hafizabad, Islamabad, and Karachi. We aim to improve people’s health, reduce the risk of certain cancers, and enhance mental satisfaction. You can donate your donations or Sadaqah online to bring a new life to deprived souls.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should you give Sadaqah?

In Islam, Sadaqah can be given to needy people at any time. There are no restrictions; however, below are some notable times and situations that are highly recommended:

> On Friday

> In Ramadan

> During Hardships

> When seeking blessings or protection

> When committing sins

Does Sadaqah increase the chances of Dua?

Yes, Many Islamic scholars revealed that giving Sadaqah can increase the chances of your dua being accepted. It happens because giving Sadaqah softens your hearts and brings blessings to givers.

Can I give Sadaqah to my relatives?

Yes, you are allowed to give Sadaqah to your relatives, and in some cases, it is even better and more rewarding to give Sadaqah to your relatives than to strangers. The Holy Prophet said, “Giving charity to a poor person is charity, and (giving) to a relative is two things, charity and upholding the ties of kinship.” (Sunan An-Nasa’i)

Is Sadaqah different from Zakat?

Yes, Sadaqah is different from Zakat. Zakat is mandatory and has fixed rules to distribute. However, Sadaqah is a voluntary act and can be given at any time in any amount.

Can Sadaqah remove the sins?

Yes, the Prophet (Peace be Upon Him) said, “Charity extinguishes sins like water extinguishes fire” (Jami` at-Tirmidhi).