In Islamic, the conclusion of one’s earthly life doesn’t denote the end of impactful deeds. Drawing from the teachings of Abu Hurairah, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) remarked that a person’s virtuous actions endure in three specific ways posthumously: perpetual charity (Sadaqah Jariyah), knowledge that continues to benefit others, and a righteous descendant who prays on their behalf.
Varieties of Sadaqah in Islam
Sadaqah Jariyah, by definition, is any charitable act whose impact continues in this world, and its reward extends to the Hereafter. Such acts of charity can be broadly classified into tangible (material) and intangible contributions.
Establishing Charitable Project
The establishment of lasting infrastructures like mosques, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and other philanthropic projects provide an indelible positive impact on society. These projects have a collective impact and continue to serve and benefit coming generations.
Endeavors for Educational Empowerment:
Founding schools and universities, backing particular educational programs, or funding the education of the underprivileged. Investing in human education equates to investing in culture, progress, and accumulated benefit.
Ensuring Access to Clean Water
Donations towards digging clean water wells or ensuring water accessibility for people. This act is a Sadaqah Jariyah addressing people’s fundamental needs, enhancing their quality of life.
Waqf Investments
Through the International Waqf Fund, one can donate a waqf share that acts as an enduring charity. The IWF gets donations and waqf shares, then invests them in an Islamically compliant and secure system. The annual profits are then directed towards financing projects for the continual benefit of the needy. To maintain the waqf concept and the perpetual nature of the sadaqah, a fraction of the returns is reinvested, ensuring the donation remains ongoing.
The distinctive aspect of these waqf shares is their diverse funding towards various charitable projects. We have educational shares to support the education of the underprivileged, water shares dedicated to providing clean and safe water, and orphan care shares to support their families.
One of the most paramount shares we emphasize is the livelihood support share. Its revenue funds small projects for needy families, ensuring they have a consistent income source, whatever profession or skill they master.
Additionally, the International Waqf Fund offers a “Leave a Gift in Your Will” service, allowing you to make a Sadaqah Jariyah for the deceased or for yourself posthumously, with the reward perpetuating, God willing.
Over its 20-year operation, the International Waqf Fund amassed nearly £8 million, reaching over 30 regions and countries, implementing hundreds of Sadaqah Jariyah projects whose effects persist.
Sadaqah Jariyah: Non-Monetary Examples in Islam
Knowledge Sharing
In the realm of sadaqah jariyah, imparting knowledge stands paramount. This includes authoring scholarly works, producing online educational content, and sharing expertise. Such endeavors ensure the legacy of beneficial knowledge, making it a prime example of sadaqah jariyah that benefits society perpetually.
Voluntary Contribution of Time and Expertise
Not all contributions are monetary. Time and effort hold immeasurable value. By participating in charitable projects, such as teaching religious tenets to a child, helping someone learn to read, or constructing shelters for the elderly, one embarks on impactful sadaqah jariyah journeys.
Promotion of virtuous actions is sadaqah, as is the prevention of bad deeds. It is vital to recognize and seize opportunities that promise enduring positive legacies.
In essence, sadaqah jariyah, tangible or otherwise, serves as a protective shield against worldly challenges, offering purification in the Hereafter and bringing about lasting benefits to communities. Through unwavering support, knowledge sharing, and community service, individuals can effect change for the betterment of future generations.
