Sadaqah used to be used interchangeably with Zakat.
In current times, Sadaqah has come to mean charity that is voluntarily given. While Zakat is supposed to be given in a certain timeframe and for a specific amount, Sadaqah is not given any timeframe or any type of limits. While Zakat deals with specific types of wealth, Sadaqah can be acts of service.
What does the Prophetic tradition say specifically about Sadaqah? Here are 5 moving hadith (sayings of Prophet Muhammad, on him be peace) about Sadaqah:
Words of Kindness Are Considered Sadaqah
The Prophet Muhammad, on him be peace said: “It is also charity to utter a good word.” [Al-Bukhari and Muslim]
Sadaqah Increases You
Muhammad, on him be peace, said: “Charity does not decrease wealth, no one forgives another but that Allah increases his honor, and no one humbles himself for the sake of Allah but that Allah raises his status.” [Muslim]
Don’t Count the Amount You Give
The Prophet, on him be peace, said: “A crafty one, a miser, and one who keeps reminding people of what he has given, will not enter Paradise.” [Tirmidhi]
Sadaqah Isn’t Just for the Wealthy
The Prophet, on him be peace said: “Your smile for your brother is a charity. Your removal of stones, thorns or bones from the paths of people is a charity. Your guidance of a person who is lost is a charity.” [Bukhari]
Sadaqah Jariya Keeps Good Deeds Flowing Even After Death
The Prophet, on him be peace, said: “When a person dies his works end, except for three: ongoing charity, knowledge that is benefited from, and a righteous child who prays for him.” [Muslim, Al-Tirmidhi, others]
Allah knows best.