What is Sadaqah Jariyah?
Sadaqah is any act of kindness given without the expectation of anything in return; Sadaqah Jariyah is a long-term kindness, a gesture that continues to give after you have gone. This often includes funding the construction of a water well or water plant, planting resourceful trees such as fruits and olives or supporting the construction of a school or medical centre.
What Does Sadaqah Jariyah Mean?
The literal Sadaqah meaning is ‘righteousness’, but in the modern-day context, it has come to mean ‘voluntary charity’. When you define Sadaqah Jariyah, it is often referred to as ‘alms’; it is recognised as meaning a voluntary charity that gives long-term.
What is the Difference Between Sadaqah and Sadaqah Jariyah?
Sadaqah is short-term, and Sadaqah Jariyah is long-term. For example, giving an orphaned child a few pennies may satisfy their hunger for one night, but sponsoring an orphan will satisfy them for months ahead and help them, in turn supporting their local communities. Further Sadaqah Jariyah ideas for inspiration include teaching or sharing knowledge, sharing the ways of Islam and funding access to education.
The Messenger of Allah (pbuh) said
“When a man dies, his deeds come to an end except for three things: Sadaqah Jariyah (ceaseless charity); a knowledge which is beneficial, or a virtuous descendant who prays for him (for the deceased).”
(Muslim)