What is Charity? A Comprehensive Guide to Charity, Sacrificial Offerings, and Ongoing Charity.
What is Charity? A Comprehensive Guide to Charity, Sacrificial Offerings, and Ongoing Charity.
Islam is a religion of mercy that encourages mutual assistance, sharing, and caring for those in need. One of the most beautiful reflections of this understanding is the act of charity (sadaqa). Sadaqa does not only mean providing material aid; it encompasses all kinds of good deeds and acts of charity performed with the aim of gaining God's pleasure.
While the term "sadaqa" is often associated with monetary donations, an examination of the Quran and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) reveals a much broader meaning. Speaking kind words, stroking the head of an orphan, giving water to a thirsty animal, supporting a student's education, or sacrificing an animal for those in need are all considered acts of charity.
In this article, we will examine the meaning of charity, its types, the sacrifice of an animal as a form of charity, Sadaqa-i Jariyah (ongoing charity), and the points to consider when giving charity, all in light of reliable Islamic sources.
What is Sadaqa?
Sadaqa is any kind of material or spiritual assistance given voluntarily with the aim of gaining God's pleasure.
The word "sadaqa" (charity) comes from the Arabic root "sidq," meaning truthfulness and sincerity. In this sense, sadaqa is a way for a person to demonstrate the sincerity of their faith through their actions.
Sadaqa is not limited to giving money. Feeding a hungry person, visiting a sick person, teaching knowledge, keeping the environment clean, planting a tree, or leaving behind lasting works that benefit people are also considered sadaqa.
The Importance of Sadaqa in the Quran
Allah Almighty says:
"The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed that sprouts seven ears, each ear containing a hundred grains. Allah multiplies the reward for whom He wills."
(Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:261)
In another verse, it is stated:
"If you give charity openly, that is good! But if you conceal it and give it to the poor, that is better for you."
(Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:271)
These verses show that giving in the way of Allah is a great gain for both this world and the hereafter.
The Prophet's Glad Tidings Regarding Charity
The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) explained that charity is not only giving wealth with the following hadith:
“Every good deed is charity.”
(Bukhari, Adab, 33; Muslim, Zakat, 56)
In another hadith, he said:
“Smiling at your believing brother is charity.”
(Tirmidhi, Birr, 36)
These hadiths show that charity is an act of worship that extends to every aspect of life.
Why is Charity Given?
Giving charity;
Charity is given with the aim of:
Gaining God's pleasure,Expressing gratitude for the blessings received,Supporting the poor and needy,Strengthening mutual assistance in society,Purifying the heart from stinginess,Increasing the blessings of wealth,Gaining spiritual peace,Hoping for the forgiveness of sins.
Charity enriches the giver spiritually while alleviating the suffering of the needy.
How Should Charity Be Given?
The most important condition of charity is sincerity. The aid given should only be for the purpose of gaining God's pleasure.
When giving charity:
Showmanship should be avoided,The dignity of the needy should be protected,The aid should not be boasted about,It should be given from lawful earnings,It should be given secretly as much as possible.
To Whom Can Charity Be Given?
Charity can be given to anyone in need.
These include:
The poor,Orphans,Destitute children,Debtors,Students,Disaster victims,Patients,Disabled people,Families in need,People stranded on the road
are among those who can benefit from charity.
In addition, donations to projects that benefit the community, such as mosques, prayer rooms, Quran courses, soup kitchens, water wells, schools, and hospitals, are also included in the scope of charity.
What is a Sacrificial Animal?
A sacrificial animal is a voluntary sacrifice offered with the intention of gaining God's pleasure. Unlike the obligatory sacrifice offered during Eid al-Adha, it can be offered on any day of the year.
A sacrificial animal is offered with the intention of expressing gratitude for a blessing, doing good, making those in need happy, or drawing closer to God. This act of worship is not obligatory; it is entirely a voluntary act of charity.
When is a Sacrificial Animal Offered?
There is no specific day or season for offering a sacrificial animal. It can be offered any day of the year.
Many people offer a charity sacrifice for various reasons:
When starting a new job,When acquiring a new house or car,Before or after a trip,With the intention of praying for the recovery of a sick person,To express gratitude to God,To do good deeds and bring joy to those in need.
How is the Meat of a Charity Sacrifice Distributed?
It is recommended that the majority of the meat from a charity sacrifice be distributed to those in need. However, the person who offered the sacrifice and their family can also eat some of the meat and share it with relatives and neighbors.
The important thing is that the sacrifice is offered for the sake of God and that the spirit of sharing is upheld.
Are Charity Sacrifices and Votive Sacrifices the Same?
No.
A votive sacrifice is offered based on a vow or promise made to God. It is an obligation that must be fulfilled.
A charity sacrifice, on the other hand, is a voluntary sacrifice offered entirely on a voluntary basis, without being tied to any vow.
Are Charity Sacrifices and Obligatory Sacrifices the Same?
No.
According to the Hanafi school of thought, an obligatory sacrifice is an act of worship that Muslims who have the financial means must perform during Eid al-Adha.
A charity sacrifice, on the other hand, is a voluntary act of worship that can be performed at any time of the year.
Can a Charity Sacrifice be Performed by Proxy?
Yes. Nowadays, a charity sacrifice can be performed by proxy through reliable sacrifice organizations. The important thing is that the slaughter is done according to Islamic procedures and that the sacrifice is delivered correctly to those in need.
What is Sadaqa-i Jariyah?
Sadaqa-i Jariyah refers to good deeds whose reward continues even after a person's death.
The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) said:
“When a person dies, his book of deeds is closed. However, three things are exceptions: Sadaqa-i Jariyah, beneficial knowledge, and a righteous child who prays for him.”
(Muslim, Testament, 14)
Therefore, any charitable act that benefits people for years to come is considered Sadaqa-i Jariyah (ongoing charity).
Examples of Sadaqa-i Jariyah:
Drilling a water well.Building a mosque or prayer hall.Donating copies of the Quran.Supporting Islamic educational activities.Building a school.Providing scholarships to students.Building a hospital.Supporting orphanages.Establishing a soup kitchen.Planting trees.Leaving behind lasting knowledge and works that benefit people.
Conclusion
Sadaqa is a broad act of worship encompassing all kinds of good deeds done with the aim of gaining God's pleasure. Material aid, kind words, voluntary service, sacrificial offerings, and Sadaqa-i Jariyah are all considered within this scope.
What is important for a Muslim is to perform the aid with sincerity and to aim to benefit people. Charity, especially that given to those in need, and charitable donations that will provide benefits for many years to come, both strengthens social solidarity and constitutes a valuable investment for the hereafter.
Sources
The Holy Quran
Surah Al-Baqarah, 2/261Surah Al-Baqarah, 2/271Surah Al-Imran, 3/92Surah Al-Hajj, 22/34Surah Al-Hajj, 22/36-37Surah Al-Hadid, 57/18Surah Al-Munafiqun, 63/10Hadith Sources
Sahih Al-Bukhari, Adab, 33Sahih Al-Muslim, Zakat, 56Sahih Al-Muslim, Wasiyat, 14Sunan Al-Tirmidhi, Birr, 36Sunan Abu Dawud, ZakatSources of Tafsir and Fiqh
Elmalılı Muhammed Hamdi Yazır, Hak Dini Kur’an DiliIbn Kathir, Tafsir al-Qur'an al-AzimImam Nawawi, Riyad al-SalihinTurkish Presidency of Religious Affairs, Qur'an Way Turkish Translation and CommentaryTurkish Presidency of Religious Affairs, Fatwas of the High Council of Religious Affairs
While the term "sadaqa" is often associated with monetary donations, an examination of the Quran and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) reveals a much broader meaning. Speaking kind words, stroking the head of an orphan, giving water to a thirsty animal, supporting a student's education, or sacrificing an animal for those in need are all considered acts of charity.
In this article, we will examine the meaning of charity, its types, the sacrifice of an animal as a form of charity, Sadaqa-i Jariyah (ongoing charity), and the points to consider when giving charity, all in light of reliable Islamic sources.
What is Sadaqa?
Sadaqa is any kind of material or spiritual assistance given voluntarily with the aim of gaining God's pleasure.
The word "sadaqa" (charity) comes from the Arabic root "sidq," meaning truthfulness and sincerity. In this sense, sadaqa is a way for a person to demonstrate the sincerity of their faith through their actions.
Sadaqa is not limited to giving money. Feeding a hungry person, visiting a sick person, teaching knowledge, keeping the environment clean, planting a tree, or leaving behind lasting works that benefit people are also considered sadaqa.
The Importance of Sadaqa in the Quran
Allah Almighty says:
"The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed that sprouts seven ears, each ear containing a hundred grains. Allah multiplies the reward for whom He wills."
(Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:261)
In another verse, it is stated:
"If you give charity openly, that is good! But if you conceal it and give it to the poor, that is better for you."
(Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:271)
These verses show that giving in the way of Allah is a great gain for both this world and the hereafter.
The Prophet's Glad Tidings Regarding Charity
The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) explained that charity is not only giving wealth with the following hadith:
“Every good deed is charity.”
(Bukhari, Adab, 33; Muslim, Zakat, 56)
In another hadith, he said:
“Smiling at your believing brother is charity.”
(Tirmidhi, Birr, 36)
These hadiths show that charity is an act of worship that extends to every aspect of life.
Why is Charity Given?
Giving charity;
Charity is given with the aim of:
Gaining God's pleasure,Expressing gratitude for the blessings received,Supporting the poor and needy,Strengthening mutual assistance in society,Purifying the heart from stinginess,Increasing the blessings of wealth,Gaining spiritual peace,Hoping for the forgiveness of sins.
Charity enriches the giver spiritually while alleviating the suffering of the needy.
How Should Charity Be Given?
The most important condition of charity is sincerity. The aid given should only be for the purpose of gaining God's pleasure.
When giving charity:
Showmanship should be avoided,The dignity of the needy should be protected,The aid should not be boasted about,It should be given from lawful earnings,It should be given secretly as much as possible.
To Whom Can Charity Be Given?
Charity can be given to anyone in need.
These include:
The poor,Orphans,Destitute children,Debtors,Students,Disaster victims,Patients,Disabled people,Families in need,People stranded on the road
are among those who can benefit from charity.
In addition, donations to projects that benefit the community, such as mosques, prayer rooms, Quran courses, soup kitchens, water wells, schools, and hospitals, are also included in the scope of charity.
What is a Sacrificial Animal?
A sacrificial animal is a voluntary sacrifice offered with the intention of gaining God's pleasure. Unlike the obligatory sacrifice offered during Eid al-Adha, it can be offered on any day of the year.
A sacrificial animal is offered with the intention of expressing gratitude for a blessing, doing good, making those in need happy, or drawing closer to God. This act of worship is not obligatory; it is entirely a voluntary act of charity.
When is a Sacrificial Animal Offered?
There is no specific day or season for offering a sacrificial animal. It can be offered any day of the year.
Many people offer a charity sacrifice for various reasons:
When starting a new job,When acquiring a new house or car,Before or after a trip,With the intention of praying for the recovery of a sick person,To express gratitude to God,To do good deeds and bring joy to those in need.
How is the Meat of a Charity Sacrifice Distributed?
It is recommended that the majority of the meat from a charity sacrifice be distributed to those in need. However, the person who offered the sacrifice and their family can also eat some of the meat and share it with relatives and neighbors.
The important thing is that the sacrifice is offered for the sake of God and that the spirit of sharing is upheld.
Are Charity Sacrifices and Votive Sacrifices the Same?
No.
A votive sacrifice is offered based on a vow or promise made to God. It is an obligation that must be fulfilled.
A charity sacrifice, on the other hand, is a voluntary sacrifice offered entirely on a voluntary basis, without being tied to any vow.
Are Charity Sacrifices and Obligatory Sacrifices the Same?
No.
According to the Hanafi school of thought, an obligatory sacrifice is an act of worship that Muslims who have the financial means must perform during Eid al-Adha.
A charity sacrifice, on the other hand, is a voluntary act of worship that can be performed at any time of the year.
Can a Charity Sacrifice be Performed by Proxy?
Yes. Nowadays, a charity sacrifice can be performed by proxy through reliable sacrifice organizations. The important thing is that the slaughter is done according to Islamic procedures and that the sacrifice is delivered correctly to those in need.
What is Sadaqa-i Jariyah?
Sadaqa-i Jariyah refers to good deeds whose reward continues even after a person's death.
The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) said:
“When a person dies, his book of deeds is closed. However, three things are exceptions: Sadaqa-i Jariyah, beneficial knowledge, and a righteous child who prays for him.”
(Muslim, Testament, 14)
Therefore, any charitable act that benefits people for years to come is considered Sadaqa-i Jariyah (ongoing charity).
Examples of Sadaqa-i Jariyah:
Drilling a water well.Building a mosque or prayer hall.Donating copies of the Quran.Supporting Islamic educational activities.Building a school.Providing scholarships to students.Building a hospital.Supporting orphanages.Establishing a soup kitchen.Planting trees.Leaving behind lasting knowledge and works that benefit people.
Conclusion
Sadaqa is a broad act of worship encompassing all kinds of good deeds done with the aim of gaining God's pleasure. Material aid, kind words, voluntary service, sacrificial offerings, and Sadaqa-i Jariyah are all considered within this scope.
What is important for a Muslim is to perform the aid with sincerity and to aim to benefit people. Charity, especially that given to those in need, and charitable donations that will provide benefits for many years to come, both strengthens social solidarity and constitutes a valuable investment for the hereafter.
Sources
The Holy Quran
Surah Al-Baqarah, 2/261Surah Al-Baqarah, 2/271Surah Al-Imran, 3/92Surah Al-Hajj, 22/34Surah Al-Hajj, 22/36-37Surah Al-Hadid, 57/18Surah Al-Munafiqun, 63/10Hadith Sources
Sahih Al-Bukhari, Adab, 33Sahih Al-Muslim, Zakat, 56Sahih Al-Muslim, Wasiyat, 14Sunan Al-Tirmidhi, Birr, 36Sunan Abu Dawud, ZakatSources of Tafsir and Fiqh
Elmalılı Muhammed Hamdi Yazır, Hak Dini Kur’an DiliIbn Kathir, Tafsir al-Qur'an al-AzimImam Nawawi, Riyad al-SalihinTurkish Presidency of Religious Affairs, Qur'an Way Turkish Translation and CommentaryTurkish Presidency of Religious Affairs, Fatwas of the High Council of Religious Affairs