What is sadaqah? The merit of charity in the Qur'an and Hadith

BlogDate: 20 May 2026
What is sadaqah? The merit of charity in the Qur'an and Hadith

What does sadaqah mean?

Sadaqah is the act of sharing wealth, time, or effort with those in need for the sake of Allah. The Qur'an and Hadith clearly emphasise the great merit of charity. Sadaqah is both a source of reward for the giver and dignified support for the recipient.

A verse from the Qur'an on charity

«The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allāh is like a seed [of grain] which grows seven spikes; in each spike is a hundred grains. And Allāh multiplies [His reward] for whom He wills. And Allāh is all-Encompassing and Knowing.»

(Qur'an, Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 261)

This verse shows us that Allah multiplies sadaqah many times over.

A hadith on charity

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:

"Charity does not decrease wealth."

(Sahih Muslim, hadith no. 2588)

In another hadith, the Prophet (peace be upon him) said that charity also repels calamity and lengthens life.

Types of sadaqah

  • Material sadaqah — money, food, clothing
  • Spiritual sadaqah — a smile, prayer, a kind word
  • Continuous sadaqah (sadaqah jariyah) — a water well, a mosque, a book

What does it mean to give sadaqah?

Giving sadaqah is not just a material act — intention and sincerity are the foundation. Many verses in the Qur'an address sadaqah, and they all repeat the same truth: Allah is pleased with the giver and records the reward.

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