Islam’s essence is the cultivation of virtuous values such as optimism, love, tranquillity, solidarity, integrity, and unwavering faith in Allah. Among these virtues, Sadaqah stands out, epitomizing the pinnacle of human traits—generosity, benevolence, and compassion. The essence of Sadaqah is a testament to one’s eeman (faith). Scholars advocate that giving Sadaqah is a profound way to receive Allah’s blessings, imparting a profound sense of inner tranquillity and joy.
Sadaqah Defined
The term ‘sadaqah’ translates to ‘righteousness.’ In Islamic doctrine, it signifies a benevolent act performed without anticipating any reciprocation. This voluntary act of charity isn’t confined to monetary contributions; it encompasses simple gestures like greeting someone with a smile or offering a helping hand. Sadaqah manifests sincere faith, with angels chronicling good deeds for mercy on Judgement Day.
The Potency of Sadaqah
Sadaqah is esteemed as one of the most rewarding acts, deriving its potency from the intention behind it. It can shield one from hellfire and provide benefits in this life. Allah safeguards His devout followers from misfortune and ailments by embodying righteousness through Sadaqah.
Administering Sadaqah for Illness
Sadaqah can be dispensed in myriad forms, with the most effective for illness being supplication (dua) for the afflicted. Another form is the sacrificial offering of animals, with the meat distributed to the impoverished. Monetary assistance to aid the community in treating the ill is also a notable form of Sadaqah.
Distinguishing Zakat from Sadaqah
While both zakat and Sadaqah involve acts of charity, they differ fundamentally. Zakat, one of Islam’s five pillars, is a mandatory donation of a fixed amount required annually from those meeting specific financial criteria. Sadaqah, in contrast, is a voluntary act of kindness done to seek Allah’s pleasure, permissible in any form and at any time of the year.
Various Forms of Sadaqah
- Supplication (Dua): Offering prayers for someone.
- Knowledge Dissemination: Sharing knowledge, especially with those unable to access it.
- Advisory: Providing sage advice to others.
- A Warm Smile: Offering a genuine smile to brighten someone’s day.
- Aid Provision: Helping others selflessly.
- Time Donation: Spending quality time with parents and loved ones.
- Child Nurturing (Tarbiyyah): Raising children with good morals and values.
- Patience: Exhibiting patience when dealing with challenges.
- Positive Influence: Guiding others towards righteousness.
- Abstaining from Evil: Avoiding harmful deeds.
- Gentle Speech: Speaking kindly and softly.
- Forgiveness: Granting forgiveness sincerely.
- Respect: Showing respect to all individuals.
- Sharing Joy: Celebrating others’ happiness without envy.
- Visiting the Sick: Caring for the ill.
- Clearing Obstacles: Removing hazards from paths.
- Guidance: Leading others towards the right path.
Benefits and Significance of Sadaqah
Sadaqah fosters eeman, bringing joy to both the giver and receiver. Its benefits include:
- Enhancing societal well-being.
- Aiding the impoverished.
- Alleviating debt burdens.
- Aiding in healing.
- Purifying the heart from greed.
- Eradicating bad luck.
- Increasing wealth.
- Ensuring heaven.
- Garnering Allah’s blessings.
Eligibility and Recipients of Sadaqah
There are no specific rules governing who can give or receive Sadaqah. It is open to anyone inclined to give, in any form, at any time. Recipients include people experiencing homelessness, neighbours in need, travellers, and strangers.
Noteworthy Facts about Sadaqah
- Derived from ‘side,’ meaning sincerity.
- Appears thirteen times in the Quran.
- Categorized into Sadaqah Nafilah and Sadaqah Wajibah.
Sadaqah Hadith
Several hadiths highlight the importance of charity, such as:
- “Sadaqah extinguishes sin as water extinguishes fire.”
- “The believer’s shade on the Day of Resurrection will be their charity.”
Sadaqah Jariyah
This long-term charity includes paying for a child’s education, sponsoring orphans, or planting trees. It benefits the giver in both this life and the hereafter.
Sadaqah Jariyah for deceased parents involves ongoing charity like funding mosque construction, supporting orphanages, or providing clean water.
Sadaqah is integral to a Muslim’s life. It offers social and spiritual benefits, enhances community well-being, and provides inner peace.