Sadaqah means charity, but it is also described as an act of love, sincerity and devotion. While Zakat is an obligation, Sadaqah is an invitation - purifying both wealth and heart while helping those in need. The reward for good deeds is described as multiplied during Ramadan, down to the smallest acts.
What is Sadaqah?
Sadaqah is voluntary charity given for Allah's sake, at any time, in any amount, and in any form - money, time, a kind word, or a smile.
“The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed [of grain] which grows seven spikes; in each spike is a hundred grains.”
“Charity extinguishes sin just as water extinguishes fire.”
How is Sadaqah different from Zakat?
Zakat is obligatory with fixed rules; Sadaqah is voluntary and flexible.
- Zakat is one of the Five Pillars and obligatory on eligible Muslims; Sadaqah is highly recommended but voluntary for anyone
- Zakat is due once a year if wealth exceeds nisab, at a fixed rate of 2.5%; Sadaqah has no fixed amount or timing
- Zakat must go to the specific recipient categories in Qur'an 9:60; Sadaqah can go to anyone in need
- Zakat requires calculation and specific intention, and missed payments must be made up; Sadaqah can be spontaneous and informal
- Zakat purifies wealth and fulfils an obligation; Sadaqah purifies the soul and increases compassion, with no sin in not giving but great reward when given
What forms can Sadaqah take?
The Prophet ◇ described charity broadly:
"Every good deed is a charity." (Bukhari & Muslim)
- Sadaqah with wealth - donating to orphans, food drives, emergency aid or a mosque
- Sadaqah Jariyah (ongoing charity) - wells, education or Qur'an learning, whose benefit continues over time
- Sadaqah in action - helping a neighbour, feeding a fasting person, volunteering
- Sadaqah in words - comforting someone, sincere advice, kind words
- Sadaqah on behalf of others - given in the name of a loved one, especially someone who has passed away
How can I give Sadaqah effectively during Ramadan?
- Give consistently - small amounts nightly, a different cause each week, and increased giving at high-reward times such as before iftar or on Laylatul Qadr
- Plan for Laylatul Qadr - worship on this night is described in the Qur'an as better than a thousand months (97:3), so even a small amount given on it is described as carrying decades of reward
- Think beyond money - helping a relative or neighbour, cooking for someone fasting, a smile to someone struggling, or making du'a for others in need
MyTenNights allows giving to be scheduled in advance across the last ten nights, so it isn't missed.
“Love using MyTenNights! For the past two Ramadans I've been able to easily give money during the last nights without worrying that I might forget! I also love the option where you can choose whether you want to donate on only odd/even nights or both! May Allah give them reward.”
What is the best way to give Sadaqah?
With sincerity - not for praise or attention, but for Allah alone.
“Allah does not look at your appearance or your wealth, but He looks at your hearts and your deeds.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I give Sadaqah on behalf of someone else?
Yes - Sadaqah is commonly given on behalf of a loved one, especially someone who has passed away.
Do I have to give money for it to count as Sadaqah?
No - any good deed counts, from a kind word to helping someone in practical ways.
When is the best time to give Sadaqah during Ramadan?
Before iftar, throughout the last ten nights, and especially on Laylatul Qadr are all times associated with multiplied reward.
How much should I give?
There's no fixed amount - Sadaqah is given according to what a person can offer sincerely.
