11 Best Benefits of Giving Sadaqah in Islam Regularly: Hadith Insights

Sadaqah, or charitable giving, is a fundamental aspect of Islamic practice, deeply rooted in the teachings of the Hadith—the sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). This act of generosity encompasses a wide range of benefits that extend beyond financial assistance, impacting both the giver and the receiver in profound ways. Here, we explore the top 11 benefits of giving Sadaqah regularly, drawing from the Hadith to highlight its significance.

1. Purification of Wealth and Soul

Wealth Purification

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) stated, “Charity does not decrease wealth” (Sahih Muslim). This Hadith underscores that giving Sadaqah purifies one’s wealth, removing impurities and ensuring that one’s earnings remain blessed and clean. Regular Sadaqah purifies the soul by fostering humility and reducing greed. It brings the giver closer to Allah, enhancing spiritual well-being and moral integrity.

Here are some Hadiths that emphasize the purification of wealth and soul in Islam:

1. On Charity and Purification of Wealth:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Charity does not decrease wealth. No one forgives another except that Allah increases his honor, and no one humbles himself for the sake of Allah except that Allah raises his status.” (Sahih Muslim, 2588)
2. On Zakat (Almsgiving) as Purification:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Allah has made Zakat obligatory simply to purify your remaining wealth.” (Sunan Ibn Majah, 1787)
3. On the Importance of Purifying One’s Soul:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Truly, Allah does not look at your outward forms and wealth, but He looks at your hearts and your deeds.” (Sahih Muslim, 2564)
4. On Charity and Sins:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Giving charity wipes away sins just as water extinguishes fire.” (Jami` at-Tirmidhi, 2616)
5. On Wealth and Accountability:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “A servant will not move on the Day of Judgment until he has been asked about four things: his life and how he spent it, his knowledge and how he acted upon it, his wealth and how he acquired and spent it, and his body and how he used it.” (Jami` at-Tirmidhi, 2417)
6. On Sadaqah (Voluntary Charity):
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “The believer’s shade on the Day of Resurrection will be his charity.” (Jami` at-Tirmidhi, 604)

2. Protection from Calamities

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “Give charity without delay, for it stands in the way of calamity” (Tirmidhi). Sadaqah acts as a protective shield, safeguarding individuals from unforeseen misfortunes and difficulties.

Here are some Hadiths that speak about protection from calamities:

1. On Seeking Refuge in Allah:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever seeks refuge with Allah from the evil of what he has done, He will protect him.” (Sunan Ibn Majah, 3877)
2. On Reciting Surah Al-Falaq and Surah An-Nas:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Say ‘Qul Huwa Allahu Ahad’ (Surah Al-Ikhlas), ‘Qul A’udhu bi Rabbil-Falaq’ (Surah Al-Falaq), and ‘Qul A’udhu bi Rabbin-Nas’ (Surah An-Nas) three times in the morning and evening; it will suffice you in all respects.” (Abu Dawood, 5082)
3. On the Power of Du’a (Supplication):
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Nothing repels the Divine decree except supplication, and nothing increases life span except righteousness.” (Jami` at-Tirmidhi, 2139)
4. On Giving Charity:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Give charity without delay, for it stands in the way of calamity.” (Al-Tirmidhi, 589)
5. On Patience and Acceptance:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “How wonderful is the affair of the believer, for his affairs are all good, and this applies to no one but the believer. If something good happens to him, he is grateful and that is good for him. If something bad happens to him, he bears it with patience and that is good for him.” (Sahih Muslim, 2999)
6. On Reciting Ayat-ul-Kursi:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever recites Ayat-ul-Kursi (2:255) after every obligatory prayer, then nothing stands between him and his entering Paradise except death.” (An-Nasa’i, 10049)

3. Increasing Wealth and Blessings

Contrary to reducing resources, Sadaqah increases wealth. The Hadith reassures, “Allah will increase the wealth of a charitable person” (Sahih Bukhari). This divine promise encourages Muslims to give generously, knowing their contributions lead to greater blessings and prosperity.

Here are some Hadiths that focus on increasing wealth and blessings:

1. On Charity and Increase in Wealth:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Charity does not decrease wealth. No one forgives another except that Allah increases his honor, and no one humbles himself for the sake of Allah except that Allah raises his status.” (Sahih Muslim, 2588)
2. On Seeking Forgiveness:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever consistently seeks forgiveness, Allah will make a way out for him from every difficulty and provide for him from sources he never could imagine.” (Sunan Ibn Majah, 3819)
3. On Maintaining Family Ties:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever loves that he be granted more wealth and that his life be prolonged, then he should keep good relations with his family.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 5986; Sahih Muslim, 2557)
4. On Honest Trade:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “The truthful and trustworthy merchant will be with the Prophets, the truthful, and the martyrs on the Day of Resurrection.” (Jami` at-Tirmidhi, 1209)
5. On Giving and Receiving Blessings:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Allah said: ‘Spend, O son of Adam, and I shall spend on you.'” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 5352; Sahih Muslim, 993)
6. On Gratitude and Increase in Blessings:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Allah will give shade to seven on the Day when there will be no shade but His… (one of them is) a person who practices charity so secretly that his left hand does not know what his right hand has given.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 1423)
7. On Being Generous:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “The upper hand is better than the lower hand (i.e., he who gives in charity is better than him who takes it).” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 1429; Sahih Muslim, 1033)

4. Elevation of Status in the Hereafter

Rewards in Paradise

Sadaqah not only benefits the giver in this world but also elevates their status in the Hereafter. The Prophet (PBUH) said, “The believer’s shade on the Day of Resurrection will be his charity” (Tirmidhi). Regular charity ensures a protective and honorable position in the afterlife. Charitable acts serve as a means of expiating sins. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) taught, “Charity extinguishes sins as water extinguishes fire” (Tirmidhi). Regular Sadaqah helps Muslims seek forgiveness and attain spiritual purity.

Here are some Hadiths that discuss the elevation of status in the Hereafter:

1. On the Status of Martyrs:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “The martyr receives six good things from Allah: He is forgiven at the first shedding of his blood; he is shown his abode in Paradise; he is protected from the punishment in the grave; he is kept safe from the greatest terror; he is adorned with a garment of faith; he is married to wives from among the wide-eyed houris; and he is made the advocate of seventy of his relatives.” (Sunan Ibn Majah, 2797)
2. On the Status of Those Who Preserve Family Ties:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever would like his provision to be increased and his life to be extended, should uphold the ties of kinship.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 5986; Sahih Muslim, 2557)
3. On the Status of Those Who Pray at Night:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “The best prayer after the obligatory prayers is the night prayer.” (Sahih Muslim, 1163)
4. On the Status of Those Who Remember Allah Frequently:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Shall I not inform you of the best of your actions, the most pure in the sight of your Lord, those that raise your ranks the highest, that are better for you than giving gold and silver, and better for you than meeting your enemies so that you strike at their necks and they strike at yours?” They said, “Certainly.” He said, “Remembrance of Allah (Dhikr).” (Sunan Ibn Majah, 3790)
5. On the Status of Those Who Uphold Justice:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “The just will be seated upon pulpits of light. They are those who uphold justice in their rulings, in matters relating to their families, and in all that which they undertake.” (Sunan Ibn Majah, 4236)

5. Enhancing Community Well-being

Alleviating Poverty

Sadaqah plays a crucial role in alleviating poverty and supporting the less fortunate. It helps build a more equitable society by redistributing wealth and providing for those in need. Regular charitable giving fosters a sense of unity and brotherhood among Muslims. It strengthens communal bonds, encouraging a supportive and compassionate community.

Here are some Hadiths that emphasize enhancing community well-being:

1. On the Importance of Kindness:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Kindness is a mark of faith, and whoever is not kind has no faith.” (Sahih Muslim, 45)
2. On Supporting the Weaker Members:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “The example of believers in their affection, mercy, and compassion for each other is that of a body. When any limb aches, the whole body reacts with sleeplessness and fever.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 5665; Sahih Muslim, 2586)
3. On the Virtue of Helping Others:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever relieves a believer’s distress in this world, Allah will relieve his distress on the Day of Resurrection.” (Sahih Muslim, 2699)
4. On Promoting Goodness and Preventing Evil:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “By Him in Whose Hand my soul is, you either enjoin good and forbid evil, or Allah will certainly soon send His punishment to you. Then you will make supplication and it will not be accepted.” (Sunan Ibn Majah, 204)
5. On Encouraging Acts of Charity:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “The believer’s shade on the Day of Resurrection will be his charity.” (Jami` at-Tirmidhi, 604)
6. On the Value of Gentleness and Modesty:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Verily, among the characteristics of the prophethood are: modesty and gentleness.” (Sunan Ibn Majah, 4171)
7. On Removing Harm from the Road:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Removing a harmful thing from the road is an act of charity.” (Sahih Muslim, 2617)

6. Bringing Happiness and Contentment

Joy of Giving

The act of giving Sadaqah brings immense joy and satisfaction. The Hadith narrates, “The best of deeds is to make a Muslim happy” (Tabarani). By helping others, individuals experience inner peace and fulfillment. Regular Sadaqah fosters a sense of gratitude and contentment with one’s own blessings. It reminds Muslims to appreciate what they have and to be thankful to Allah for His provisions.

Here are some Hadiths that discuss bringing happiness and contentment:

1. On Contentment and Wealth:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Riches do not mean, having a great amount of property, but riches are self-contentment.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 6081; Sahih Muslim, 1051)
2. On Gratitude and Contentment:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Look at those who are below you and do not look at those who are above you, for this keeps you from belittling the blessings of Allah.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 6491; Sahih Muslim, 2963)
3. On Seeking Allah’s Pleasure:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Whosoever seeks Allah’s pleasure at the cost of people’s displeasure, Allah will be pleased with him and will cause people to be pleased with him.” (Sunan Ibn Majah, 2796)
4. On Spreading Joy:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Do not belittle any good deed, even meeting your brother with a cheerful face.” (Sahih Muslim, 2626)
5. On the Power of a Smile:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Your smiling in the face of your brother is charity.” (Jami` at-Tirmidhi, 1956)
6. On Achieving Inner Peace:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “The similitude of the one who remembers his Lord and the one who does not remember Him, is like that of the living and the dead.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 6408; Sahih Muslim, 2797)
7. On Contentment with Allah’s Decree:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Amazing is the affair of the believer, verily all of his affair is good and this is not for no one except the believer. If something of good/happiness befalls him he is grateful and that is good for him. If something of harm befalls him he is patient and that is good for him.” (Sahih Muslim, 2999)

7. Strengthening Faith and Trust in Allah

Reliance on Divine Support

Sadaqah enhances a Muslim’s faith and trust in Allah. It reinforces the belief that Allah is the ultimate provider and that reliance on Him brings security and peace. The practice of giving regularly cultivates a habit of generosity. It strengthens faith by encouraging Muslims to trust in Allah’s promise of increased provisions for those who give in His name.

Here are some Hadiths that discuss strengthening faith and trust in Allah:

1. On Trust in Allah’s Decree:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Know that what has passed you by was not going to befall you; and what has befallen you was not going to pass you by.” (Sunan At-Tirmidhi, 2516)
2. On Patience and Faith:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Strange are the ways of a believer for there is good in every affair of his and this is not the case with anyone else except in the case of a believer for if he has an occasion to feel delight, he thanks (Allah), thus there is a good for him in it, and if he gets into trouble and shows resignation (and endures it patiently), there is a good for him in it.” (Sahih Muslim, 2999)
3. On Reliance on Allah:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “If you trust Allah with the right kind of trust, He will provide you with sustenance as He provides birds; they go out in the morning hungry and return in the evening full.” (Sunan At-Tirmidhi, 2344)
4. On the Importance of Faith:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Faith consists of more than sixty branches (i.e., parts), and Haya (modesty/shyness) is a part of faith.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 9)
5. On Seeking Refuge in Allah:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “When you go to bed, recite Ayat al-Kursi (2:255), for there will remain with you a guardian from Allah, and no devil will approach you until morning.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 231; Sahih Muslim, 2714)
6. On Remembrance of Allah:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “He who remembers his Lord and he who does not are like the living and the dead.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 6408; Sahih Muslim, 2797)
7. On Prayer and Trust:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “When you ask Allah, ask Him for Al-Firdaus (the highest level of Paradise), for it is the middle of Paradise and the highest part of Paradise, and at its top there is the Throne of the Most Merciful.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 2637; Sahih Muslim, 187)

8. Improving Mental and Physical Health

Mental Health Benefits

The psychological benefits of Sadaqah are profound. Giving charity reduces stress, alleviates anxiety, and promotes overall mental well-being. It creates a sense of purpose and belonging. Engaging in charitable activities can also have physical health benefits. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “Cure your sick with charity” (Abu Dawood). Regular Sadaqah is believed to bring about physical healing and well-being.

Here are some Hadiths that discuss improving mental and physical health:

1. On Maintaining a Healthy Diet:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Nothing is worse than a person who fills his stomach. It should be enough for the son of Adam to have a few bites to satisfy his hunger. If he wishes more, it should be: One-third for his food, one-third for his liquids, and one-third for his breath.” (Sunan Ibn Majah, 3349)
2. On the Importance of Exercise:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged physical activity and said: “Teach your children swimming, archery, and horse riding.” (Sunan Ibn Majah, 4147)
3. On Sleep and Rest:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Take a nap, for the Shayateen (devils) do not take naps.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 4112; Sahih Muslim, 2002)
4. On Mental Well-being:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Consult your heart. Righteousness is what makes the soul feel tranquil and the heart feel tranquil, and sin is what creates restlessness in the soul and turbulence in the chest, even though people decree it lawful and give you their advice.” (Musnad Ahmad, 8603)
5. On Stress Management:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “If any of you is suffering from anything or his brother is suffering, he should say: ‘Our Lord is Allah Who is in the heavens, holy is Your name, Your command reigns supreme in the heavens and the earth, as Your mercy in the heavens, so do Your mercy in the earth. Forgive us our sins, and our transgressions. You are the Lord of the good men. Send down (Your mercy) from Your mercy, and cure us, and You are the cures, and there is no cure but Yours, a cure that leaves no disease behind.'” (Sunan Abi Dawud, 3892)
6. On Hygiene and Cleanliness:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Cleanliness is half of faith.” (Sahih Muslim, 223)
7. On Seeking Medical Treatment:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Make use of medical treatment, for Allah has not made a disease without appointing a remedy for it, with the exception of one disease, namely old age.” (Sunan Abi Dawud, 3855)

9. Continuous Rewards (Sadaqah Jariyah)

Ongoing Charity

Sadaqah Jariyah refers to continuous charity that provides ongoing rewards even after the giver’s death. The Hadith states, “When a man dies, his deeds come to an end except for three: Sadaqah Jariyah (ongoing charity), knowledge which is beneficial, or a virtuous descendant who prays for him” (Sahih Muslim). This encourages Muslims to invest in lasting charitable projects. By engaging in Sadaqah Jariyah, Muslims can leave a lasting legacy of good deeds, benefiting future generations and ensuring perpetual rewards.

Here are some Hadiths that discuss continuous rewards, known as Sadaqah Jariyah:

1. On Planting Trees:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “If a Muslim plants a tree or sows seeds, and then a bird, or a person, or an animal eats from it, it is regarded as a charitable gift (Sadaqah) for him.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 2320)
2. On Digging a Well:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “The best form of charity is giving water (to drink).” (Sunan Ibn Majah, 3664)
3. On Building a Mosque:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever builds a mosque for Allah, Allah will build for him a house like it in Paradise.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 439; Sahih Muslim, 533)
4. On Knowledge Shared:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “When a person dies, all his deeds come to an end except three: Sadaqah Jariyah (a continuous charity), beneficial knowledge (that he has left behind), or a righteous child who will pray for him.” (Sahih Muslim, 1631)
5. On Leaving Behind a Good Deed:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “When a human being dies, all of his deeds are terminated except for three types: an ongoing charity, knowledge from which others benefit, and a righteous child who prays for him.” (Sahih Muslim, 1631)
6. On Writing Beneficial Knowledge:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever guides someone to goodness will have a reward like one who did it.” (Sahih Muslim, 1893)

10. Enhancing Social Justice

Reducing Inequality

Sadaqah helps reduce social and economic inequalities. It ensures that wealth is distributed more evenly, supporting a fairer society. Charitable giving empowers the vulnerable, providing them with resources and opportunities to improve their lives. It upholds the principles of justice and compassion central to Islamic teachings.

Here are some Hadiths that emphasize enhancing social justice:

1. On Fairness in Trade:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “The seller and the buyer have the right to keep or return goods as long as they have not parted or till they part; and if both the parties spoke the truth and described the defects and qualities (of the goods), then they would be blessed in their transaction, and if they told lies or hid something, then the blessings of their transaction would be lost.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 2079)
2. On Honesty in Business:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “The one who cheats us is not one of us.” (Sahih Muslim, 102)
3. On Fair Treatment of Workers:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Give the worker his wages before his sweat dries.” (Sunan Ibn Majah, 2442)
4. On the Rights of Neighbors:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day should not harm his neighbor.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 6014)
5. On Equality Before the Law:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Your lives, your property, and your honor are as sacred to one another as this day of yours, in this land of yours, in this month of yours.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 67; Sahih Muslim, 1218)
6. On Advocating for Justice:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Help your brother, whether he is an oppressor or he is oppressed.” People asked, “O Allah’s Messenger! It is all right to help him if he is oppressed, but how should we help him if he is an oppressor?” The Prophet said, “By preventing him from oppressing others.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 6941)
7. On Fair Treatment of Women:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “The most perfect in faith amongst believers is he who is best in manner and kindest to his wife.” (Sunan Ibn Majah, 1977)

11. Strengthening Bonds with Allah

Spiritual Connection

Regular Sadaqah strengthens the bond between the giver and Allah. It is an act of devotion that reinforces a Muslim’s commitment to their faith and their relationship with the Creator. The ultimate aim of giving Sadaqah is to seek Allah’s pleasure. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “Allah loves those who are generous” (Tabarani). By giving regularly, Muslims aim to earn the favor and love of Allah, securing their place in His mercy.

Here are some Hadiths that discuss strengthening bonds with Allah:

1. On Establishing Prayer:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “The first thing a person will be asked about on the Day of Judgment is their prayer. If it is in order, then the rest of their deeds will be in order. And if it is corrupt, then the rest of their deeds will be corrupt.” (Sunan an-Nasa’i, 465)
2. On Remembering Allah Frequently:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “The similitude of the one who remembers his Lord and the one who does not remember Him, is like that of the living and the dead.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 6408; Sahih Muslim, 2797)
3. On Seeking Allah’s Guidance:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever seeks guidance, Allah guides him; and whoever seeks help, Allah helps him.” (Sahih Muslim, 2664)
4. On Seeking Forgiveness:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “By Allah, I seek Allah’s forgiveness and repent to Him more than seventy times a day.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 6307; Sahih Muslim, 2702)
5. On Gratitude to Allah:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “He who does not thank people, does not thank Allah.” (Sunan Abi Dawud, 4811)
6. On Being Sincere in Worship:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Verily, actions are judged by intentions, and every person will have what he intended.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 1)
7. On Contentment with Allah’s Decree:
   • The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Amazing is the affair of the believer, verily all of his affair is good and this is not for no one except the believer. If something of good/happiness befalls him he is grateful and that is good for him. If something of harm befalls him he is patient and that is good for him.” (Sahih Muslim, 2999)

Conclusion

In conclusion, giving Sadaqah regularly offers profound benefits, both spiritually and materially. Rooted in the teachings of the Hadith, Sadaqah purifies wealth and soul, protects from calamities, increases blessings, and elevates status in the Hereafter. It enhances community well-being, brings happiness, strengthens faith, and improves health. Moreover, it provides continuous rewards, promotes social justice, and deepens one’s bond with Allah. By embracing the practice of Sadaqah, Muslims fulfill a noble duty, embodying the essence of Islamic compassion and generosity.