Charity is a central theme of Islam, and there are various obligatory and voluntary types of charity that Muslims engage with. One voluntary mode of charity is Sadaqah Jariyah, which is a gesture that continues to give over a long period of time. Examples include building medical facilities or schools, planting resourceful trees (e.g., fruit trees), or building water plants or wells.

The direct translation of Sadaqah is righteousness; however, today, it’s perceived to mean voluntary charity. Moreover, Sadaqah Jariyah is often called “alms”, which is recognised as meaning voluntary charity that gives long-term.

Hadith on Sadaqah Jariyah

Since it’s such an integral feature of Islam, there are a number of Hadiths about Sadaqah Jariyah. For instance, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) stated:

“When a human being dies, all one’s deeds cease, save three: a Sadaqah Jariyah, [religious] knowledge [one leaves behind] from which others benefit, and a righteous child who prays for one.”

Sadaqah Jariyah for the Deceased in the Hadith

Sadaqah Jariyah is a charity that one not only gives on behalf of oneself, but it may also be given on behalf of others. This includes those that have already passed, as this charity can benefit them in Jannah. It is said that:

“The deceased can benefit from charity given on his behalf, which includes a waqf of a Mus-haf etc., or digging a well, or planting a tree, whether he does that during his lifetime, or it is done by someone else on his behalf after his death.”

Sadaqah Jariyah for Parents in the Hadith

While it’s possible to give Sadaqah Jariyah on behalf of the deceased, you may also choose to give Sadaqah Jariyah on behalf of living parents. When giving Sadaqah Jariyah on behalf of someone else, you want to ensure you’re making the right decision for them.

To that end, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “The best charity is giving water to drink”. As a result, you may choose to donate towards the building of a water well on behalf of your parents. Not only will this provide a community with ongoing benefits, but it will also strengthen your parents’ bond with Allah (SWT).

Planting a Tree for Sadaqah Jariyah in the Hadith

Olives are a blessed fruit in Islam, receiving plenty of mention within the Qur’an and the Hadith. Planting an olive tree provides communities with olives for years on end, meaning it’s an act of Sadaqah Jariyah that brings ongoing benefits.

Regarding this, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “If any Muslim plants any plant and a human being or an animal eats of it, he will be rewarded as if he had given that much in charity.”

Sadaqah Jariyah Can Cure Illnesses and Prevent Death

A number of people globally are in vulnerable positions, leaving them vulnerable to serious illnesses that lead to painful deaths. Sadaqah Jariyah is one of the most effective forms of charity when it comes to tackling such hardship. This is because Sadaqah Jariyah doesn’t refer to a one-time donation; it has the power to impact a person or community for years to come.

Some examples of Sadaqah Jariyah in relation to this include building a hospital, building a water well, planting a resourceful tree, and sponsorship programmes.

While there are no rules about when one should give Sadaqah Jariyah, it’s recommended that it’s given in the instance that a loved one falls ill. This is because this can help you avoid ill fate. Similarly, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “Treat your sick ones with charity.”

Sadaqah Jariyah Can Relieve Hardship and Eliminate Catastrophes

There are people worldwide who have no place to call home and struggle to find clean drinking water and nutritious food. Meanwhile, there are millions more who are living in places recovering from natural disasters and the impact of wars. Essentially, these people suffer from hardship daily, and catastrophes wreak havoc on their livelihoods. While one-time donations are greatly appreciated, these may only shelter, hydrate, or feed someone for a day. An act of Sadaqah Jariyah, though, can relieve this hardship and eliminate the impact of these catastrophes for good.

Some examples of Sadaqah Jariyah in relation to this include building a home, building a water well, planting a resourceful tree, and sponsorship programmes.

Even in times of hardship, Muslims are encouraged to give Sadaqah Jariyah. This shows strong faith and gratitude to Allah (SWT), trusting that he will change situations for the better. In fact, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “Give the Sadaqah without delay, for it stands in the way of calamity.”

Follow the Teachings of the Hadith with Orphans in Need

Orphans in Need receives Sadaqah Jariyah donations, allowing you to make a lasting impact on those who need it most. Visit our Sadaqah page to learn more or make a donation.