Many Muslims often wonder how they can offer Sadaqah when they are short of funds. As we know there are many benefits of giving Sadaqah, it can be given without the need for money. Islam encourages various forms of sadaqah, many of which can be given through actions, time, and kindness. What holds significance is the intention, behind these gestures—when performed for the sake of Allah.
How to Give Sadaqah Without Money
Here are some ways to give sadaqah without money along with some Hadith references:
1. Helping Others
Assisting someone who needs help with tasks, like lifting objects or running errands is truly impactful. It can be expressed in various ways without needing wealth—your time and willingness to create an impact.
Narrated Abu Huraira:
Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) said: To judge justly between two persons is regarded as Sadaqa, and to help a man concerning his riding animal by helping him to ride it or by lifting his luggage on to it, is also regarded as Sadaqa. – Sahih al-Bukhari 2989
Full Hadith can be seen here:
2. Spreading Knowledge
Spreading knowledge is a highly rewarding form of sadaqah that benefits both the giver and the receiver. It can be as simple as sharing what you know with someone who needs it or helping others grow in their understanding. Some ways of spreading knowledge can be sharing Islamic teachings, a piece of advice, sharing your expertise in a subject, trade, or skill, or offering guidance in anyone’s career.
Abu Huraira (Allah be pleased with him) reported Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) as saying:
When a man dies, his acts come to an end, but three, recurring charity, or knowledge (by which people) benefit, or a pious son, who prays for him (for the deceased). – Sahih Muslim 1631
3. Kind Words
A kind word is a form of charity. Speaking kindly to others, offering encouragement, or saying words of comfort can be a form of Sadaqah.
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said:
A good word is a Sadaqa – [Sahih Muslim 1009]
Read the full Hadith here.
4. Dua (Supplication)
Praying for others is a profound and selfless form of sadaqah. Making dua for someone’s health, guidance, or success benefits both the one who prays and the one being prayed for.
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said,
“The supplication of a Muslim for his (Muslim) brother in his absence will certainly be answered. Everytime he makes a supplication for good for his brother, the angel appointed for this particular task says: ‘A meen! May it be for you, too’.” – Sahih Muslim
5. Physical Acts of Kindness
Simple actions like removing a harmful object from the road, helping someone carry their groceries, or opening a door for someone are all forms of sadaqah. These small gestures contribute to making the world safer and more comfortable for others.
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said,
Removing harmful things from the pathway is a Sadaqa. – Sahih Muslim 1009
Such acts may seem minor but have a significant impact on the well-being of your community and demonstrate a spirit of care and responsibility.
6. Good Manners
Displaying good manners and treating others with respect is a powerful form of sadaqah. Acts like greeting people with a smile, being patient, and refraining from gossip or harmful speech are all considered charitable deeds in Islam.
By practicing kindness, humility, and empathy, you not only improve your relationships with others but also earn immense rewards from Allah.
7. Planting or Caring for Nature
Planting trees and greenery represents a perfect act of kindness since it benefits humans and animals while supporting the environment well. A tree offers shade and produces oxygen and food, all of which can serve others even after one’s death.
Narrated Anas bin Malik:
Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) said, “There is none amongst the Muslims who plants a tree or sows seeds, and then a bird, or a person or an animal eats from it, but is regarded as a charitable gift for him.” – Sahih al-Bukhari 2320
Also read: Connection between Quran and nature
8. Smile
A smile is a simple yet powerful form of sadaqah. It is a universal act of kindness that fosters positivity and goodwill in any situation.
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said,
“Your smiling in the face of your brother is charity” – Jami` at-Tirmidhi 1956 (Grade: Hasan (Darussalam))
9. Acts of Worship
Engaging in practices such as prayer and fasting or reciting the Quran can also be considered an act of kindness when done with faith and the desire to please Allah SWT. You can amplify the rewards by inspiring or supporting others in these practices. Teaching someone a short Dua or how to pray can have lifelong benefits for them while bringing you continuous blessings.
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said,
The Prophet (ﷺ) said, “The best among you (Muslims) are those who learn the Qur’an and teach it.” – Sahih al-Bukhari 5027
Acts of worship not only strengthen your relationship with Allah but can inspire and uplift others around you.
10. Mediating Conflicts
Mediating and resolving conflicts between people is a valuable form of sadaqah. Disputes often cause tension and harm in relationships, so helping to reconcile differences and restore peace is a charitable act.
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:
Shall I not inform you of something more excellent in degree than fasting, prayer and almsgiving (sadaqah)? The people replied: Yes, Prophet of Allah! He said: It is putting things right between people, spoiling them is the shaver (destructive). Sunan Abi Dawud 4919
Each of these actions has immense value in Islam, as they reflect the spirit of generosity and care for others. Even small, sincere efforts can have a big impact in the eyes of Allah.
