Sadaqah Jariyah holds a special place in Islam as one of the most rewarding forms of charity. The importance of Sadaqah Jariyah during Ramadan is immense and it offers continuous blessings for both the giver and the receiver, extending the impact of a good deed far beyond the initial act.
The importance of giving during Ramadan is heightened, as rewards for good deeds are multiplied in this sacred month—especially on Laylatul Qadr, which is better than a thousand months. It’s a time when Muslims strive to maximize their acts of worship, generosity and seeking Allah’s mercy, ensuring their charity reaches those in need on the most blessed nights of the year.
In this article, we’ll explore the significance of Sadaqah Jariyah during Ramadan, its long-lasting benefits, and practical ways to engage in ongoing charity for lasting spiritual rewards.
What is Sadaqah Jariyah?
Sadaqah Jariyah refers to a form of continuous charity that benefits both the giver and the receiver long after the initial act of giving. Unlike regular charity (Sadaqah), which offers immediate but short-term rewards, Sadaqah Jariyah continues to bring blessings for as long as people benefit from the good deed.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“When a man dies, his deeds come to an end except for three things: Sadaqah Jariyah (ongoing charity), beneficial knowledge or a righteous child who prays for him.” (Sahih Muslim)
Examples of Sadaqah Jariyah include:
- Building wells to provide clean water.
- Donating towards the construction of mosques or schools.
- Supporting educational programs or providing Qurans for recitation.
Each of these actions continues to reward the donor for as long as the benefit remains, making it a powerful and enduring form of worship.
Learn more about the The Difference Between Zakat and Sadaqah here.
Why Sadaqah Jariyah is Especially Important During Ramadan
Ramadan is not just a month of fasting but a period of spiritual renewal and generosity. One of the most powerful aspects of this holy month is that the rewards for good deeds are multiplied exponentially. Every act of worship, charity, and kindness carries far greater spiritual benefits than at any other time of the year.
Allah beautifully describes the rewards of giving charity in the Quran:
الَّذِينَ يُنفِقُونَ أَمْوَالَهُم بِاللَّيْلِ وَالنَّهَارِ سِرًّا وَعَلَانِيَةً فَلَهُمْ أَجْرُهُمْ عِندَ رَبِّهِمْ ۖ وَلَا خَوْفٌ عَلَيْهِمْ وَلَا هُمْ يَحْزَنُونَ
“Those who spend their wealth [in Allah’s way] by night and by day, secretly and publicly, will have their reward with their Lord. And no fear will there be concerning them, nor will they grieve.” – (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:274)
Spiritual Benefits of Sadaqah Jariyah in Ramadan:
- Purification of Wealth: Giving in charity purifies your earnings, ensuring that your wealth brings blessings rather than harm.
- Cleansing the Heart: Regular acts of charity, especially during Ramadan, help remove greed and attachment to material possessions, fostering a more compassionate and generous heart.
- Reflecting the Spirit of Ramadan: Sadaqah Jariyah embodies the true essence of Ramadan—selflessness, empathy, and concern for the well-being of others. It helps strengthen bonds within the community and supports those in need.
Benefits of Sadaqah Jariyah
Sadaqah Jariyah offers ongoing rewards that extend far beyond the initial act of giving. This form of charity not only supports those in need but also brings immense blessings to the donor, both in this life and the Hereafter.
1. Continuous Rewards (Sawab Jariyah)
One of the greatest benefits of Sadaqah Jariyah is the continuous reward it brings. Every time someone benefits from the charity you’ve given—whether it’s drinking from a water well you funded or gaining knowledge from books you provided—you earn rewards, even after your passing.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“When a person dies, all his deeds come to an end except three: Sadaqah Jariyah (ongoing charity), beneficial knowledge, or a righteous child who prays for him.” – (Sahih Muslim)
2. Spiritual Purification
Sadaqah Jariyah cleanses the heart from greed, arrogance, and attachment to worldly possessions. It also brings barakah (blessings) into your wealth and life. Acts of ongoing charity reflect sincerity and help maintain a purified soul, fostering humility and compassion.
3. Strengthens Community
By contributing to long-term initiatives like education, healthcare, or providing clean water, you help build stronger, healthier communities. Sadaqah Jariyah can uplift entire communities by addressing fundamental needs, fostering growth, and creating opportunities for future generations.
4. Closeness to Allah
Engaging in continuous charity strengthens your bond with Allah. Acts of generosity are highly encouraged in Islam as they reflect empathy, kindness, and piety. Sadaqah Jariyah allows Muslims to earn Allah’s pleasure and increase their connection with the Divine through good deeds.
5. Protection from Calamities
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the protective nature of charity in this Hadith:
“Charity extinguishes sins just as water extinguishes fire.” (Tirmidhi)
Sadaqah Jariyah serves as a shield from misfortune and hardship, offering spiritual protection and bringing ease during difficult times.
Practical Ways to Give Sadaqah Jariyah During Ramadan
Ramadan is the perfect time to engage in acts of Sadaqah Jariyah as the rewards for good deeds are multiplied. Here are some impactful ways to contribute to ongoing charity during this blessed month:
1. Building or Contributing to a Mosque
Supporting the construction or renovation of a mosque ensures continuous rewards for every prayer performed within its walls. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“Whoever builds a mosque for Allah, Allah will build for him a house like it in Paradise.” (Sahih Bukhari)
Even small contributions to a mosque fund can bring immense spiritual rewards.
2. Supporting Education Initiatives
Funding schools, educational institutions, or offering scholarships for underprivileged students provides lasting benefits. Every lesson learned and every skill acquired through your support counts as an ongoing source of rewards.
You can also contribute by donating books, funding Islamic courses, or supporting programs for Quranic education.
3. Providing Clean Water
Access to clean water is a basic human need, yet many communities lack it. Donating toward building water wells or installing water filtration systems can provide a sustainable solution.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“The best charity is giving water to drink.” (Ahmad)
This act ensures long-term benefits for those who receive access to clean water.
4. Planting Trees
Planting trees is an act of ongoing charity that benefits both the environment and the community. Trees provide shade, fruit, and help purify the air.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“If a Muslim plants a tree or sows seeds, and then a bird, or a person, or an animal eats from it, it is regarded as a charity for him.” (Sahih Bukhari)
5. Donating Islamic Literature or Quran Copies
Providing Islamic books or copies of the Quran is a simple yet powerful form of Sadaqah Jariyah. Every time someone reads or learns from these resources, you continue to earn rewards.
Consider donating to libraries, mosques, or educational centers that offer free access to Islamic knowledge.
Conclusion
Sadaqah Jariyah is a beautiful way to leave a lasting impact while securing continuous rewards from Allah. During Ramadan, when good deeds are multiplied, contributing to ongoing charity can benefit generations to come. Whether it’s building a mosque, supporting education, or providing clean water, every act of kindness continues to reward you long after it is given.
Platforms like Feeling Blessed make it easy to give, ensuring your charity reaches those who need it most. Take advantage of this opportunity to maximize your rewards and help create meaningful change.
May Allah accept our charity, multiply our rewards, and grant us the ability to continue giving for His sake. Ameen.