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Sadaqah is a term in Islam that refers to making charity or contributions to help those in need. Charity is considered one of the most noble practices in Islam, highlighting the importance of generosity and compassion, especially towards the less fortunate.

As The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:

“Every act of kindness is charity. A good word is a charity. Every step you take towards prayer is a charity. Every gulp of water you give to your family is a charity.”

(Bukhari)

The Difference of Sadaqah and Zakat

While both Sadaqah and Zakat are important in Islam for helping others and building a caring community, they have different meanings. Sadaqah is a voluntary form of charity that can be given at any time and in various ways—whether through money, time, skills, or even a simple smile. There are no specific rules about when or how to give Sadaqah, making it a flexible and effective way to make a positive impact every day.

On the other hand, Zakat is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is a mandatory form of charity. Muslims who possess certain types of wealth, such as gold, silver, crops, or trade goods, must give 2.5% of their value once it reaches nisab (the minimum amount that a Muslim must have before being obliged to pay zakat). Zakat is specifically intended to help certain groups, such as the poor and those in debt.

For more information on Zakat, you can check out the comprehensive guide of Zakat here.

Benefits of Sadaqah

Giving charity, or Sadaqah, brings numerous spiritual and practical benefits. Here are some of the profound impacts:

1. Earning rewards from Allah

In Islam, charity is considered one of the noblest deeds. People who give charity are believed to receive great rewards from Allah.

“The example of those who spend their wealth in the cause of Allah is that of a grain that sprouts into seven ears, each bearing one hundred grains.”

(Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 261)

2. Removal of Sins

In Islam, charity is believed to help in the removal of sins. By giving charity, a person can cleanse themselves of their sins and attain spiritual purity.

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “Charity extinguishes sin as water extinguishes fire”

(Tirmidhi)

3. Purifying wealth

By giving charity, a person shares their wealth with those in need. This act of giving reduces selfishness and greed. When someone is willing to share what they have, they focus less on keeping everything for themselves and more on helping others. 

This selflessness makes their wealth purer because it is used for good purposes, like supporting those who are struggling.

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said

“Charity does not diminish wealth. There is no one who forgives others, but Allah will increase his glory. And no one humbles himself for the sake of Allah, but Allah will raise his rank”

(Muslim)

4. Protection from calamities

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) encourages people to give charity without hesitation because it acts as a safeguard, potentially preventing the impact of disasters and hardships. In essence, being generous can bring divine protection and ward off potential problems.

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said: "Give charity without delay, for it stands in the way of calamity."

(Tirmidhi)

5. Increase faith

By doing charity, a person can increase their faith and piety to Allah. This can help a person become better at living their life.

“In Allah and His Messenger and spend out of that in which He has made you successors. For those who have believed among you and spent, there will be a great reward."

(Surah Al-Hadid, verse 7)

6. Become an example for others

By giving charity, one can be an example to others in terms of kindness and generosity. This can motivate others to do the same and bring goodness to society.

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said: 

"He who sets a good example in Islam will have a reward for it and the reward of those who act upon it after him without diminishing their rewards in the slightest. And he who sets in Islam an evil tradition will bear the burden of it and the burden of those who act upon it after him without diminishing their burdens in the slightest."

(Muslim)

Types of Sadaqah

In Islam, Sadaqah includes many different ways to give and show kindness. Here are some of them:

1. Sharing Food

Providing food to those in need to help reduce hunger and improve community well-being.

2. Giving Financial Help

Giving money to help people facing difficulties and improve their living conditions.

3. Praying for Others

Praying for the well-being and success of others, asking Allah for blessings and mercy on their behalf.

4. Spreading Positivity

Creating positivity with a simple smile, lifting others' spirits and fostering a friendly atmosphere.

5. Offering Guidance

Giving helpful guidance based on personal experience to support others through challenges.

6. Caring for the Sick

Offering emotional support and practical help to those who are ill, showing empathy and compassion.

7. Teaching Skills

Helping others learn practical skills that improve their lives and future prospects.

8. Creating Community Spaces

Creating long-lasting community spaces like mosques, schools, and hospitals that provide ongoing benefits.

9. Inventing Something Useful 

Engaging in innovative endeavors that result in inventions benefiting society or improving the well-being of other creatures, such as animals and plants.

Conclusion

Sadaqah, a voluntary form of charity in Islam, can be given anytime in various forms, emphasizing generosity and kindness. Unlike mandatory Zakat, Sadaqah offers flexible ways to help others, bringing spiritual rewards and fostering a compassionate community. Through Sadaqah, Muslims can make a significant positive impact on their society.

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