Sadaqah Jariyah | Muslim Hands UK

Give Sadaqah Jariyah

Leave a legacy of good on behalf of yourself or a loved one

What is Sadaqah Jariyah?

The meaning of Sadaqah Jariyah is a continuous, flowing and ongoing charity. Whether this charity is given on behalf of a deceased love one or to those in need in your living years, it is one of the most rewarding acts we can do in our lives. The benefits of giving this type of charity can be reaped in this lifetime and long after we have passed.

What is the difference between Sadaqah and Sadaqah Jariyah?

They both count as Sadaqah (voluntary charity) and they are both highly recommended acts. However, ‘Sadaqah’ on its own will benefit the recipient on a single occasion and will count as one good deed for the giver.

Sadaqah Jariyah will benefit the recipients more than once and that good deed will continue rewarding you even after your death.

For example, giving someone something to eat is a Sadaqah and will benefit that person in that moment whereas building a water well where people can regularly draw water is a Sadaqah Jariyah and will benefit people for generations to come and in turn will continue benefiting you in this life and the next in sha’ Allah.

Why Give Sadaqah Jariyah?

The beauty of Sadaqah Jariyah is that with one donation you can leave a legacy of good that continues for years. The Messenger of Allah (saw) said:

When a person dies, his deeds come to an end except for three: Sadaqah Jariyah (a continuous charity), or knowledge from which benefit is gained, or a righteous child who prays for him.

[Narrated by Abu Hurairah (ra) in Sahih Muslim]

It can be as simple as planting a single tree or as large scale as building an entire masjid, but what do both share in common? They will provide continuous benefit to the recipient and continuous blessing to the giver. Every time that tree bears fruit or every time a worshipper prays in that masjid, you will receive the reward of your gift.

What are examples of Sadaqah Jariyah?

Sadaqah Jariyah is any form of ongoing charity which continues to benefit recipients beyond the initial donation. Some examples are:

  • Building water wells as a continuous source of clean water
  • Supporting or building a masjid for communities to gather and worship
  • Supporting education, either on a smaller scale like sponosring an orphan or something bigger like donating an entire classroom
  • Planting trees for fruit and shade
  • Funding healthcare facilities like clinics or hospitals
  • Spreading beneficial knowledge through something like sponsoring a Hifz student or distributing Islamic literature
  • Providing resources for sustainable livelihoods to vulnerable families

For over 30 years, Muslim Hands has delivered sustainable projects that support vulnerable communities around the world. From water and education to livelihoods and healthcare, our initiatives help create lasting benefit for those in need.

What Is the Best Sadaqah Jariyah?

Many forms of charity can be considered Sadaqah Jariyah if they continue benefiting people over time. Projects that provide essential resources such as clean water, education and healthcare are often regarded as particularly impactful because they support communities for many years.

Through Muslim Hands, supporters can contribute to sustainable initiatives designed to provide lasting benefit for vulnerable communities. Popular Sadaqah Jariyah projects include providing clean water, sponsoring orphaned children and helping build or maintain mosques.

Sadaqah Jariyah FAQ's

Can Sadaqah Jariyah be given for someone who has passed away?

Yes. Giving Sadaqah Jariyah on behalf of a loved one who has passed away is a beautiful way to honour their memory and ensure they continue receiving reward even after they are gone. Many of our donors choose to give water on behalf of someone they have lost based on the following hadith:

Saʿd ibn ʿUbadah (ra) reported, 'I said, "O Messenger of Allah, my mother has died. May I give charity on her behalf?" He said, "Yes." I said, "Which charity is best?" He said, "Providing drinking water."'

[Abu Dāwūd and Ibn Mājah]

How do Sadaqah Jariyah projects help communities?

Sadaqah Jariyah projects are designed to create lasting change. Initiatives such as clean water systems, education and livelihood support can improve health, strengthen local economies and help families build more secure futures.

Is building a water well considered Sadaqah Jariyah?

Yes. Providing access to clean water is widely regarded as a powerful form of Sadaqah Jariyah because it continues benefiting people every day. Clean water supports drinking, cooking and hygiene, helping communities stay healthy and strong.

Can Sadaqah Jariyah be given regularly?

Yes. You can absolutely support Sadaqah Jariyah through regular giving. Ongoing donations can help sustain long-term development projects that continue supporting communities over time. Popular ways to give Sadaqah Jariyah regularly include sponsoring a child. At Muslim Hands you can sponsor an orphan, a Hifz student or a child with disabilities.

How can I give Sadaqah Jariyah through Muslim Hands?

Muslim Hands delivers sustainable projects that support communities over the long term across the world. Whether it is providing an orphan with an education, giving communities access to clean water or supporting historic mosques such as Masjid Al-Aqsa in Palestine and the Umayyad Mosque in Syria, there are many ways to fulfil your Sadaqah Jariyah through Muslim Hands.

Where can I get more information on Sadaqah Jariyah?

For more detailed information you can check out our scholar verified Islamic resource What is Sadaqah Jariyah? or contact our team on mail@muslimhands.org.uk