The Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) Teachings on Sadaqah: A Guide to Giving
Sadaqah is so much more than giving money. It is about spreading kindness, showing compassion, and easing someone’s burden in any way we can. Here in the UK, where many strive to support others through charity, the timeless teachings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) still guide and inspire us.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) was the perfect example of what true giving looks like. His generosity was not limited to wealth. He gave his time, care, attention, and love freely. Even when he had little, he gave without hesitation, always with a sincere heart.
Many of us hear the word Sadaqah and think of dropping coins into a box or donating online. But the beauty of Sadaqah goes far beyond that. Every kind word, every small act of care, and every moment spent helping someone else all count as Sadaqah.
Let’s explore some of the most powerful and inspiring examples of how the Prophet (peace be upon him) practised Sadaqah in everyday life and how we can follow in his footsteps today.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) taught that Sadaqah acts as a shield that protects us from hardship and misfortune. He said,
“Charity does not decrease wealth” (Sahih Muslim)
It reminds us that giving does not reduce what we have; it brings barakah (blessings) into our lives. When we give with sincerity, our wealth is purified, our hearts are softened, and we draw closer to Allah. Whether it is helping someone in need, supporting a charity, or simply sharing a kind smile, every act of Sadaqah carries reward in this life and the next.
Sadaqah in Everyday Life
Many people think that donating to charity means giving large amounts of money. However, the Prophet (peace be upon him) taught us that Sadaqah goes beyond wealth. He said, “Even a smile is charity” (Tirmidhi). Here are some simple ways you can give in charity:
- Providing food to those in need: You can donate food to local shelters or support global charity initiatives.
- Helping others: Offering a hand with a task or sharing kind words is also a form of Sadaqah.
- Donating your Zakat: Zakat is an obligation for Muslims, ensuring that wealth reaches those who need it most.
- Supporting water charity projects: Access to clean water can transform lives in places like Palestine, Syria, and Afghanistan.
- Giving your time and skills: Volunteering for a charity project in the UK can have just as much impact as a financial donation.
Let every small act of Sadaqah reflect the mercy and love the Prophet (peace be upon him) lived by.
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Fulfil your obligation today – give Zakat and be a source of hope for those in need!
The Prophet’s (peace be upon him) Best Examples of Sadaqah
The life of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is filled with inspiring acts of selflessness, compassion, and generosity. His approach to charity went beyond just giving money; he gave his time, effort, and love to those around him. Here are some powerful examples of his charity:
Feeding the Hungry
The Prophet (peace be upon him) ensured no one went without food. He taught that sharing meals is one of the greatest forms of charity. He said,
“The best of you are those who feed others” (Sunan Ibn Majah)
This hadith emphasises the importance of generosity and caring for others, particularly through providing food to the vulnerable individuals. Whether offering food to the poor or sharing a meal with guests, he led by example and encouraged Muslims to share food with their neighbours and those in need.
Caring for the Most Vulnerable
The Prophet (peace be upon him) showed deep concern for the most vulnerable, including orphans, widows, the poor, and even prisoners. He made it clear that caring for others is a central part of faith. He once said, “I and the one who looks after an orphan will be like this in Paradise” (Sahih Bukhari), holding his index and middle fingers together to show the closeness. Compassion and charity were at the very heart of Islam.
Helping the Poor
The Prophet (peace be upon him) never turned away anyone in need. He encouraged charity without expecting anything in return and taught that the best charity is given in secret, where only Allah knows. He said,
“A man who gives in charity and hides it, so that his left hand does not know what his right hand has given, will be under the shade of Allah on the Day of Judgement”. (Sahih al-Bukhari)
This hadith emphasises the value of giving charity quietly and without seeking attention. It reminds us that acts of genuine kindness will be rewarded by Allah on the Day of Judgement.
Providing Water to the Thirsty
The Prophet (peace be upon him) placed great value on providing clean water and considered it one of the most important acts of charity. A famous hadith tells of a man forgiven by Allah simply for giving water to a thirsty dog (Bukhari, Muslim). This highlights the immense rewards of water charity, such as building wells and offering clean water to communities in need.
Forgiving Debts
The Prophet (peace be upon him) encouraged Muslims to be merciful towards those facing financial hardship. He praised those who forgave debts or extended repayment times, saying Allah would show mercy to them on the Day of Judgement. This teaches that charity is not just about giving money; it is about easing the burdens of others.
Offering Kind Words and a Helping Hand
Charity is not limited to financial contributions; it can be shown in many small but meaningful ways. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said,
“Every act of goodness is charity” (Sahih Muslim)
Whether it was a warm smile, comforting words, or helping someone carry their belongings, he demonstrated that charity is not just about wealth but kindness and service to others.
Selflessness in Giving
The Prophet (peace be upon him) often gave away everything he had, even the food in his home, so others could have something to eat or wear. He never turned away a person in need. If he had nothing, he would find someone who could help. If he had only a little, he would share it. One companion said, “The Messenger of Allah was never asked for anything except that he gave it” (Bukhari). His selflessness was an example of pure generosity, always open to the needs of others.
Humility in Charity
The Prophet (peace be upon him) gave with humility, respect, and compassion. He never made anyone feel small for asking. He taught that charity should never be given with arrogance. He once said, “A kind word is charity” (Bukhari). This shows us that how we give is just as important as what we give. He made people feel honoured, not pitied.
Sadaqah Jariyah: The Best Type of Charity
The Prophet (peace be upon him) taught that the most rewarding charity is the one that continues to benefit others even after we have passed away. He said:
“When a man dies, all his good deeds come to an end except three: Ongoing charity (Sadaqah Jariyah), beneficial knowledge and a righteous son who prays for him.” (Sahih Muslim)
This is what Sadaqah Jariyah is all about. It is an ongoing charity that keeps helping others even when we are no longer here. And the Prophet (peace be upon him) did not just teach it; he lived it. He planted trees, helped provide water through wells, and promoted education with the belief that these small acts could change lives for years to come.
That same spirit lives on today. A well built in a village can give clean water to families for generations. Even planting a tree can become a source of shade, food, and reward that continues long after we are gone.
Sadaqah Jariyah is not just about addressing needs in the moment; it is about building a future filled with ongoing benefit, kindness, and reward.
Bringing hope through small acts of kindness—a meal, a helping hand, or a gift can light up a child’s day.
Support Palestine with Your Sadaqah
Today, the need for charity is greater than ever, especially in places like Palestine. Supporting a Palestine charity means providing food, water, and medical aid to those suffering. Your donation for Palestine could mean a meal for a starving family or shelter for a child without a home.
United Muslims is here to ensure that your contributions go directly to those who need them most. Whether you choose to donate Zakat in the UK or to support global efforts, your kindness has the power to bring hope and relief to many.
Give in Charity, Reap the Rewards
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) showed us that charity is not just about wealth; it is about intention, kindness, and action. When we give, we not only help others but also purify our own hearts. Whether it is a small act of kindness or a major donation to charity, every effort counts.
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