In basic terms, Sadaqah means charity. But in Islamic culture, it’s also a beautiful act of love, sincerity, and devotion.
While Zakat is an obligation, Sadaqah is an invitation. It’s a way to purify your wealth and heart, and an opportunity to help those in need while seeking the pleasure of Allah. During Ramadan, the rewards for every good deed are multiplied, and that includes even the smallest acts of kindness.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what Sadaqah really means, how to give it meaningfully during Ramadan, and how tools like MyTenNights can help you give consistently every night.
What Is Sadaqah?
Sadaqah is voluntary charity given for the sake of Allah. Unlike Zakat, which is obligatory and has specific rules and recipients, Sadaqah can be given at any time, in any amount, and in many forms – whether that’s money, time, a kind word, or even a smile.
Allah describes Sadaqah in the Qur’an as a way to grow your wealth spiritually:
“The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed [of grain] which grows seven spikes; in each spike is a hundred grains.” (Qur’an 2:261)
Giving Sadaqah is also a shield. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“Charity extinguishes sin just as water extinguishes fire.” (Tirmidhi)
Whether you give a large donation or simply offer someone a helping hand, Sadaqah can protect you, purify you, and draw you closer to Allah.
What is the Difference Between Sadaqah and Zakat?
It’s important to understand the difference between Sadaqah and Zakat, especially during Ramadan when both are commonly given:
| Zakat | Sadaqah |
|---|---|
| One of the Five Pillars of Islam | A highly recommended voluntary act |
| Obligatory on eligible Muslims | Voluntary for anyone at any time |
| Due once a year if wealth exceeds nisab | Can be given any time, in any amount |
| Fixed rate (usually 2.5%) | No fixed amount or time |
| Must go to specific eligible recipients (Qur’an 9:60) | Can be given to anyone in need or as a general good deed |
| Requires calculation and intention | Can be spontaneous and informal |
| Missed payments must be made up | No sin for not giving, but great reward when given |
| Purifies wealth and fulfills an obligation | Purifies the soul and increases compassion |
Many Muslims choose to give both: Zakat to fulfil their obligation, and Sadaqah as a regular, ongoing act of devotion.
Different Types of Sadaqah Ideas
Sadaqah comes in many forms. The most well-known is financial giving, but the Prophet (peace be upon him) reminded us that:
“Every good deed is a charity.” (Bukhari & Muslim)
Some examples include:
- Sadaqah with Wealth: Donating money to support orphans, food drives, emergency aid, or your local mosque.
- Sadaqah Jariyah (Ongoing Charity): Long-term impact projects like building wells, funding education, or supporting Qur’an learning (these continue to benefit you even after death).
- Sadaqah in Action: Helping a neighbour, feeding a fasting person, or offering your time to volunteer.
- Sadaqah in Words: Comforting someone, giving sincere advice, or even saying a kind word.
- Sadaqah on Behalf of Others: You can give Sadaqah in the name of a loved one, especially someone who has passed away. It’s a beautiful way to benefit them and earn reward together.
How to Give Sadaqah Effectively During Ramadan
Ramadan is a time when every act of worship is multiplied. Giving Sadaqah during this month is one of the most powerful ways to earn reward and transform lives.
Here are some meaningful ways to give Sadaqah this Ramadan:
1. Give Consistently
One of the best acts in Islam is to give regularly, even if it’s small, as The Prophet (peace be upon him) said.
You can do this by:
- Donating a small amount every night
- Supporting a different cause each week
- Giving at times of high reward, like before iftar or during Laylatul Qadr
To make consistent giving easier, tools like MyTenNights allow you to schedule donations in advance across the last ten nights of Ramadan, so you never miss an opportunity.
2. Plan for Laylatul Qadr
The last 10 nights of Ramadan hold immense potential, especially Laylatul Qadr, the Night of Decree, which is “better than 1,000 months” (Qur’an 97:3).
Giving even £1 on this night is like giving every day for over 83 years.
If you’re worried about missing Laylatul Qadr, you can use MyTenNights to automate your donations across the last 10 nights. You set your amount once, and it splits your giving so that you never miss Laylatul Qadr, even if you’re asleep or forget.
“Love using MyTenNights! For the past two Ramadans I’ve been able to easily give money during the last nights without worrying that I might forget! I also love the option where you can choose whether you want to donate on only odd/even nights or both! May Allah give them reward.” — Marlum
3. Think Beyond Money
Giving doesn’t have to only be financial. Some of the most impactful acts of Sadaqah are simple, heartfelt gestures, such as:
- Helping a relative or neighbour
- Cooking for someone who’s fasting
- Smiling at someone who’s struggling
- Making du’a for others in need
Sadaqah is accessible to everyone, whether you have money to spare or just love to give.
What Is the Best Way to Give Sadaqah?
Above all, Sadaqah should be done with sincerity. Not for praise. Not for attention. But to please Allah alone. As the Prophet (peace be upon him) taught:
“Allah does not look at your appearance or your wealth, but He looks at your hearts and your deeds.” (Sahih Muslim)
If you’re giving to help someone, purify your wealth, or draw closer to Allah, you’re already on the right path. Whether you support a global charity, help your local masjid, or give secretly to someone in need, your Sadaqah can carry the reward of a lifetime.
Giving Sadaqah – Frequently Asked Questions
Can I give Sadaqah on behalf of someone else?
Yes, especially for deceased loved ones. It’s a powerful way to benefit them and continue their legacy.
Do I have to give money?
No. Any good deed, big or small, counts as Sadaqah – from a kind word to helping someone in need.
When is the best time to give?
The best times include before iftar, during the last 10 nights of Ramadan, and on Laylatul Qadr.
How much should I give?
There’s no fixed amount. Give whatever you can with sincerity.
What’s the difference between Sadaqah and Zakat?
Zakat is obligatory and has specific rules. Sadaqah is voluntary and more flexible.
May your Sadaqah this Ramadan be a source of joy for others and mercy for you.
Looking to give Sadaqah consistently during the most rewarding nights of the year? MyTenNights helps you automate your donations across the last 10 nights of Ramadan, so you never miss Laylatul Qadr, even if life gets busy.