What are the Types of Sadaqah (Voluntary Charity) in Islam?

In Islam, Sadaqah offers diverse ways to extend help to others, showcasing kindness and generosity.

From ongoing acts of kindness (Sadaqah Jariyah) to mandatory charitable duties (Sadaqah Wajibah), each type of sadaqah serves a distinct purpose.

Let’s explore what are the types of Sadaqah in Islam: 

1. Sadaqah Nafillah

Sadaqah Nafillah is an optional act of charity and not mandatory. It includes giving alms to decrease difficulties, offering help out of compassion for the needy, and donating any permissible (Halal) items to anyone. 

It does not need to be given to specific categories to be rewarding, nor does it have to be given exclusively to Muslims.

It is more rewarding if given to poor Muslims. This type of charity can also be included in a will, but only up to one-third of the deceased person's estate.

Let’s find out what are the further types of Sadaqah Nafillah: 

1. Waqf

Waqf is a type of charity when you set aside something valuable for a special purpose, either during your life or in your will. Once done, it belongs to Allah and is used for specific causes like helping the poor, orphans, students, or people in a certain area. 

Unlike regular gifts, Waqf doesn't give ownership to individuals or organizations, but the benefits go to those in need. Trustees are responsible for managing Waqf, similar to how trusts are handled today.

2. Aqiqah

Aqiqah is an Islamic traditional type of charity where you sacrifice an animal to thank Allah (SWT) for the birth of a child. The meat is then shared with others, especially the less fortunate and close family members.

3. Lillah

Lillah means 'for God.' It's any kind of charity given purely out of goodwill for Allah's sake.

For example, many charitable organizations collect Lillah to fund relief aid, wells, hospitals, etc. People give these contributions solely to please Allah (SWT).

Lillah doesn't have to be directed towards a specific individual. It can instead be donated to institutions like hospitals, schools, or orphanages, such as Pakistan Sweet Home.

2. Sadaqah Wajibah

The term "Sadaqah Wajibah" signifies a mandatory form of charity. These charitable acts must be carried out, although they might not be obligatory for every Muslim. Instead, their necessity depends on individual actions within the faith.

Let’s explore what are the further types of Sadaqah Wajibah: 

1. Sadaqatul Fitr 

Every able Muslim is obligated to pay Sadaqatul Fitr, it's also known as the Zakat al Fitr. To be eligible, one must be a Muslim, an adult of sound mind, and financially capable.

It can be given in the form of wheat or barley, or an equivalent amount in monetary value, typically just a few pounds. Muslims must pay it before the Eid Salah to ensure the recipients receive it in time for Eid day.

2. Nadhr

Nadhr refers to a self-imposed obligation, often undertaken as a gesture of gratitude, which may involve acts like Sadaqah. If one pledges to give charity in this manner, it becomes Sadaqah Wajibah. Failure to fulfill such an oath may incur Kaffarah, leading to potential sinfulness.

3. Fidyah

Fidyah serves as compensation for missed Salah or Sawm (Fast of Ramadan) due to circumstances like terminal illness or death, or for minor errors during Hajj. The standard amount for each missed obligation is 1.6kg of wheat or its equivalent value, similar to Sadaqatul-Fitr. 

Generally, Fidyah is considered Sadaqah Wajibah. There is also the option of offering Sadaqah Nafilah, which benefits both the giver and the deceased.

4. Kaffarah

Kaffarah, a significant form of compensation akin to Fidyah, is obligatory Sadaqah (Wajibah). It applies in scenarios such as intentional fasting violations or oath breaches, with two distinct types:

1. Greater Kaffarah:

This refers to intentionally breaking a fast. The person must either fast for 60 days in a row or provide food for 60 needy people. If unable to feed 60 people in one day, the individual may distribute the sustenance over 60 days. 

However, distributing the entire amount to one person in a single day does not fulfill the obligation.

2. Lesser Kaffarah:

This form of Kaffarah applies to oath violations. It offers the option to either free a slave (no longer applicable) or provide sustenance for 10 needy individuals, each receiving two meals or clothing. Failure to do so requires fasting for three consecutive days.

5. Udhiyah

This refers to Qurbani, an obligatory act for all Muslims who are able to perform it. Certain conditions must be met for the animal to be eligible for slaughter. It must be over one year old, of a specific type, and slaughtered in a halal manner in the name of Allah (SWT). 

The meat is then divided into three parts: one for the person performing the act, one for their family, and one for the poor.

3. Sadaqah Jariyah

Sadaqah Jariyah, originating from Arabic, means "flowing" (Jariyah) "charity" (Sadaqah). It signifies charitable contributions made during one's lifetime.

These contributions persistently benefit designated recipients, thereby continuing to yield divine rewards for the giver even after their passing.

Sadaqah Jariyah also known as "ongoing charity," "perpetual charity," or "running charity." The term "ever-flowing charity" underscores its unique ability to impact both recipients and donors long after the donor's demise.

Examples of Sadaqah Jariyah

Following are the ways one can give Sadaqah Jariyah and can earn ongoing benefits of charity:

1. Building a Mosque: Constructing a mosque offers a space for Muslims to worship, seek knowledge, and build community, benefiting generations to come.

2. Donating a Mushaf of the Quran: Giving a copy of the Quran ensures ongoing rewards, as you receive a share of the blessings each time it is read.

3. Digging Wells or Providing Water Sources: Providing access to clean drinking water through wells or water infrastructure fulfills a fundamental human need for generations.

4. Planting Trees or Gardens: Planting trees that provide shade, oxygen, and fruits, or establishing community gardens that offer sustenance. These are enduring charitable acts that support both the environment and future generations.

5. Publishing Beneficial Knowledge: Producing and distributing books, articles, or digital content with valuable knowledge, especially Islamic teachings, serves as a form of Sadaqah Jariyah.

6. Supporting a Child, Teacher, or Orphan: Offering sustained assistance to individuals ensures an ongoing stream of benefits and rewards.

You can increase your impact by helping or sponsoring orphans of Pakistan Sweet Home. Your support can provide them with essential resources, education, and a brighter future.

In conclusion, understanding the types of Sadaqah in Islam—Sadaqah Wajibah (obligatory acts), Sadaqah Nafilah, and Sadaqah Jariyah (ongoing charity)—is essential for fostering generosity and compassion. 

Each type fosters generosity, compassion, and continuous rewards from Allah. By practicing these forms of Sadaqah, Muslims can enhance societal well-being and earn lasting divine blessings.

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