What is Sadaka-i Cariye?

Sadaka-i cariye is a type of worship that continues to earn rewards for a person's good deeds even after they have passed away. Islamic scholars recommend that individuals continue to perform this act of worship regularly. Those who regularly perform this act of worship will be greatly rewarded both in this life and in the afterlife.

Types and Examples of Sadaka-i Cariye

Sadaka-i cariye is regarded as one of the greatest forms of worship that enables individuals to continue earning rewards after their death. Examples of this worship include doing something for the greater good of Islam and humanity, leaving behind something that has a positive impact, and creating structures that serve as a benefit to society. Bridges, roads, mosques, fountains, foundations, and madrasas are among the structures that are considered examples of this worship.

The Purpose of Sadaka-i Cariye

The purpose of Sadaka-i cariye is to benefit people and leave behind good deeds. This worship encompasses many beneficial deeds and individuals should be aware of the enormous contributions these good deeds make. For example, helping the poor with their clothing needs, digging wells, opening educational institutions, and building hospitals are among the good deeds that fall under Sadaka-i cariye. When these good deeds are performed, the poor are helped, drinking water is provided to regions that lack it, and people are supported in the areas of education and health. Therefore, Sadaka-i cariye is very important for individuals as it has a positive impact on their lives.

Can People Without Financial Means Perform This Worship?

Since Sadaka-i cariye is not a mandatory act of worship, it is not necessary to perform it. However, a few people can come together to perform one of the activities related to this worship. In this way, they will not be negatively affected financially and they will earn rewards by performing this worship.

Hadiths About Sadaka-i Cariye

There are many hadiths about Sadaka-i cariye. These hadiths provide individuals with more knowledge about this act of worship and guide them on the path to follow. Prophet Muhammad's hadiths on this subject are as follows:

• "When a man dies, his deeds come to an end except for three things: Sadaka-i cariye (charitable donations), a righteous child who prays for him, and knowledge which he leaves behind that is useful to others." (Muslim, Wasiyyah, 14)
• "The life of any of you is better than seeing the deed of goodness in this world. Therefore, let there be Sadaka-i cariye, knowledge, and a righteous child (who is dutiful to his parents), and let these good deeds continue after you." (Ibn Majah, Zuhd, 32)

These hadiths emphasize the importance of Sadaka-i cariye and its ability to earn rewards even after death. Therefore, Muslims are encouraged to perform Sadaka-i cariye by doing good deeds and building structures that are beneficial to society.

"We are only a means.”