Sadaqah Jariyah in Hadith: 3 Deeds That Never Die

The Hadith conveys that three actions will remain advantageous for an individual after his death: sadaqah jariyah, the acquisition of knowledge, and the existence of a virtuous child who prays on their behalf. This hadith is documented in the compilation of Ibn Majah and is transmitted by Abdullah, a companion of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. It promotes generosity, the best sadaqah jariyah charity , prioritization of knowledge and education, and the upbringing of children in a virtuous manner, imparting principles of prayer and religion.

The hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ clarifies that our actions do not cease with death. Our virtuous actions may continue to benefit us in the future through three ways: sadaqah jariyah, sharing valuable knowledge, and having a righteous child who prays on our behalf. Enduring charity encompasses sadaqah jariyah donation that persists in aiding individuals after the donor's death. Beneficial knowledge enhances comprehension of one's faith, and possessing a righteous offspring signifies having children or grandchildren who adhere to Islamic principles and offer prayers for the benefactor after their demise. These acts of virtue will persist in benefiting us hereafter and assist us on the Day of Judgment when we shall be held responsible for our earthly conduct. That's why NGOs offer various sadaqah jariyah services and engage in sadaqah jariyah fundraising.

Sadaqah Jariyah is a form of charity that continually benefits recipients beyond an individual's death, often referred to as "ever-flowing charity." It is categorized as a waqf (endowment). It is referenced in the hadith of Abu Hurayrah, wherein the Messenger of Allah asserts that upon a person's demise, all good deeds cease except for ongoing charity, beneficial knowledge, or a virtuous offspring who prays for them. Scholars such as An-Nawawi and Al-Khatib ash-Sharbini acknowledge that ongoing charity relates specifically to waqf, distinguishing it from other charitable acts. Ongoing charity, as a waqf, continues to provide benefits to recipients after his death. Instances of such charity include offering iftar to those fasting, sponsoring orphans, and caring for older people. Additionally, sadaqah jariyah services are typically utilized for the establishment of a masjid, an orphanage, or a senior care facility, provided that the institution continues to serve the community.

Islam emphasizes the importance of sharing knowledge and guidance to benefit both learners and those who educate them. The most valuable information to impart is the Qur'ān, since it offers significant Thawab from Allah Almighty. Ibn Mas'ud and Uthmān reported that the Holy Prophet ﷺ said that the most exemplary among you is the one who studies and teaches the Qur'ān.

Raising a virtuous kid entails cultivating a profound love for Allah Almighty and the Prophet ﷺ, imparting knowledge of His life with family and companions, and providing them with an alternative worldview. By imparting knowledge of the Holy Qur'ān, daily Sunnah, and prophetic values, children will develop a profound confidence in Allah and His favour.

By leading a fortunate life, children will become "righteous children" for their parents, who will receive their prayers and supplications after death, thereby becoming a kind of "Sadaqah Jariyah" for them.

• Islam supports the existence of a hereafter, asserting that earthly existence is temporary.
• Believers worship Allah (SWT) and have faith in Prophet Muhammad and his messengers.
• Death signifies the conclusion of the trial and the start of the Day of Judgment, which determines individuals' admission to either paradise or hell.
• The Day of Judgment (Qiyamah) lasts for 50,000 years and serves as the day of reckoning.
• The Qur'ān and Sunnah define 14 phases of the afterlife, commencing with burial.

• Barzakh:

  The invisible domain, the partition between life and death.

• Trumpet:

  The trumpet sounded by the angel Israfel at the command of Allah.

• Apocalypse:

  The first sound of the trumpet eliminates all existence, including Israfel.

• Resurrection:

  Following a duration known alone to Allah, Angel Israfel is revived to resurrect mankind for the Day of Judgment.

• Resurrection:

  All of mankind is revived from their graves, anticipating judgment from Allah.

• Book of Deeds:

  Every individual is allocated their book of deeds.

• Accountability:

  Allah assesses His servants for their virtuous actions and sins.

• Re reckoning:

  An individual's actions are evaluated, influencing their fate in the afterlife.

• Fountain of Kawthar:

  Believers are granted water from one of the rivers of heaven.

• Sirat:

  The bridge crosses hellfire leading to heaven, and all are fated to cross it.

• Intercession:

  Many people request the Prophets to seek pardon on their behalf.

• Purgatory:

  Distinguishes between heaven and hell, directing humans to their last home.

• Hell:

  Individuals who have faith in Allah may nonetheless be fated to experience hell for a limited duration.

• Paradise:

  An everlasting state of peace and calmness.