Charity & Islamic Rulings – Muslims in Need (MiN)

Learn About The Types of Charity

Charity and Islamic Rulings

Why Charity Matters

We all have the power to make a difference, and even a small donation can help change lives. With so many problems in the world, it’s easy to wonder if our contribution really helps. But the truth is, every bit counts, and when we all give, it adds up to something big.

When many people give together, charities can do even more to help those in need, protect the environment, and support important causes. Your donation, no matter how small, can help bring hope and create a better world for everyone.

Why not donate to those most in need?

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Different Types of Charity

Zakat

Zakat is a compulsory act of charity in Islam, commanded by Allah in the Qur’an. It requires all mature and mentally sound Muslims who meet a minimum wealth threshold, called the Nisab, to give 2.5% of their wealth to help others. The donation must go to specific groups of people, as mentioned in the Qur’an, and if it’s not given to the right people, it must be repaid. By giving Zakat, Muslims fulfill a key responsibility and purify their wealth.

Zakat is one of the five pillars of Islam, making it a core duty for all Muslims who qualify. It must be paid once a year when a person’s wealth remains above the Nisab level for a full lunar year. The funds are then used to support those in need, helping to build a stronger, more compassionate community.

Sadaqah

Sadaqah is a voluntary act of charity in Islam, done with the intention of pleasing Allah. It can take many forms, not just financial help. A kind gesture, a smile, making a dua (prayer) for someone, or lending a helping hand are all considered Sadaqah. The beauty of Sadaqah lies in its simplicity—any act of goodness done for the sake of Allah counts, whether it's big or small.

The significance of Sadaqah is great in Islam, as it is one of the keys to entering Jannah (Heaven). The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught that giving Sadaqah helps purify the soul and erase sins, much like water extinguishes fire. Whether it’s donating money, feeding someone, or even removing an obstacle from a path, every act of Sadaqah brings blessings and helps strengthen the community.

"Sadaqah extinguishes sin as water extinguishes fire."
(Tirmidhi)

There are many types, they have been divided into the following two categories, both of which have separate rulings:

Sadaqah Wajibah (Obligatory)

Sadaqah Wajibah is a type of charity in Islam that is obligatory, similar to Zakat but with some differences. It includes specific forms of charity like Sadaqah al-Fitr, which is given before Eid and ensures the poor can celebrate. Other forms include Nadhr (a vow to give charity), Fidyah (compensation for missed prayers or fasts), and Kaffarah (penalty for breaking an oath or fasting intentionally). These types of Sadaqah must be given to the eligible categories of people mentioned in the Qur’an, just like Zakat.

Sadaqah Wajibah also includes Qurbani, the sacrifice made during Eid al-Adha. This is a compulsory act for those who meet the wealth threshold and must be done within the three days of Eid. Another example is Dam, which is a sacrifice specific to Hajj, required for those who make mistakes during the pilgrimage. These types of charity are important acts of worship and serve as ways to fulfill obligations to both Allah and the community.

Sadaqah Nafilah (Voluntary)

Sadaqah Nafilah is a voluntary charity in Islam that is not obligatory but highly encouraged. Unlike Zakat or Sadaqah Wajibah, this type of charity can be given at any time, to anyone, and does not have to be spent on specific groups. You can give it to the poor, support a community project, or help someone in need. It is seen as a way to remove difficulties, show mercy to others, and earn additional rewards from Allah. Even a small act of kindness, like feeding someone or donating to a school, counts as Sadaqah Nafilah.

There are several forms of Sadaqah Nafilah, including Lillah (giving to institutions like mosques or hospitals), Waqf (creating a trust for a charitable cause), and Aqeeqah (offering a sacrifice to thank Allah for the birth of a child). This type of charity also includes giving extra beyond what is required, whether to help with someone’s hardships or seek forgiveness for one’s sins. Though it’s optional, Sadaqah Nafilah is a beautiful way to seek blessings from Allah, and He promises great rewards for those who give freely and with pure intentions.

Sadaqah Jaariyah

Sadaqah Jaariyah is a special kind of charity in Islam that continues to bring rewards even after a person has passed away. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said,

"When a person dies, all their deeds end except three: a continuing charity, beneficial knowledge, and a child who prays for them."
(Sahih Muslim)

This charity can include long-term projects like building schools, wells, or hospitals, supporting efforts that benefit people for years to come. Sadaqah Jaariyah is important because it allows you to leave a lasting positive impact, with the rewards continuing even after death.

Riba (Interest)

In Islam, Riba (interest) refers to any excess or additional amount charged on borrowed money, which is forbidden. The most common form of Riba today is interest on loans or deposits, where the borrower must pay more than the original amount. Islam strictly forbids both receiving and paying interest, as it is seen as unjust and harmful.

If interest money accumulates in your bank account, it's important not to use it for personal gain. The best way to handle it is by donating it to charity. While this won't earn you religious rewards, it helps dispose of the haram (forbidden) funds in a way that aligns with Islamic teachings and protects you from further sin.

Haram Income

In Islam, Haram Income refers to money earned through forbidden means, such as selling prohibited items (like alcohol or drugs) or acquiring halal items through dishonest methods (like lying or cheating). Islam strictly forbids earning through these ways, as it goes against the values of honesty and fairness.

To purify oneself from Haram income, the best method is to return the money or items to their rightful owners. If that’s not possible, the next step is to donate it to charity, similar to disposing of interest money. If someone’s life has been deeply entangled with Haram earnings, they should make sincere efforts to shift to Halal income, gradually disposing of the ill-gotten wealth and seeking Allah's forgiveness. This path of redemption, though challenging, is essential for spiritual peace and acceptance in the eyes of Allah.