Sadaqah is a voluntary act of charity given out of compassion, love, friendship, or generosity. Unlike Zakat, Sadaqah is not obligatory and can be given at any time, in any amount. It can be in the form of money, food, clothing, or even a kind gesture or smile.

Zakat is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is a mandatory form of charity for eligible Muslims. It requires Muslims to give a fixed portion (usually 2.5%) of their wealth annually to those in need. Zakat is meant to purify one’s wealth and help in the equitable distribution of resources within the community.

Waqf refers to an endowment in Islam where a person donates an asset (like land, buildings, or money) for charitable purposes. The asset itself remains intact, while the proceeds or benefits derived from it are used to support charitable activities like education, healthcare, or community welfare. Waqf is a long-term contribution meant to provide ongoing support.

Sadaqah is not limited to financial donations. It can include any act of kindness, such as helping someone in need, offering a smile, or even removing a harmful object from the path. Sadaqah extends to any good deed done with sincerity and compassion.

While the poor are one of the main recipients of Zakat, it can also be given to other eligible categories mentioned in the Quran, such as those in debt, new Muslims in need of support, travelers, and those working to collect and distribute Zakat.

No, Zakat is obligatory for all Muslims who possess wealth above the Nisab threshold for one lunar year. If a person’s savings or assets reach or exceed this minimum threshold, they are required to pay Zakat, regardless of their social status.

Once an asset is dedicated as Waqf, it cannot be reclaimed or used for personal gain. It becomes a charitable trust, and its benefits are directed solely to the causes specified by the donor, ensuring long-term charitable support.

No, Sadaqah and Zakat serve different purposes. Zakat is obligatory and has specific rules regarding who must give and who can receive, while Sadaqah is voluntary and can be given to anyone at any time. Both are highly encouraged, but they fulfill distinct roles in Islamic charity.