Beyond Wealth Distribution: Building an Eternal Legacy Through Sadaqah Jariyah

Introduction

In our previous discussion, we explored the Quranic obligation of estate planning and the importance of aligning wealth distribution with divine laws. However, Islam’s vision for managing wealth extends beyond legal compliance. True success for a Muslim entrepreneur lies in transforming worldly assets into an enduring legacy of goodness—one that continues to earn divine reward beyond mortal life.

As stated in the oath of a muslim business man: “True wealth and property belong to Allah alone and are entrusted to me by Allah; thus, I must ensure my career, business methods, and income are all consistent with the Laws of the teachings of Islam as guided by the scholars.”

The Quranic Imperative: Surah Al-Baqarah 2:261

Allah (SWT) promises:

“The example of those who spend their wealth in the Way of Allah is like a grain that sprouts seven ears, each bearing a hundred grains. Allah multiplies [reward] for whom He wills. And Allah is All-Encompassing, All-Knowing.” (Quran 2:261)

This verse highlights the immense reward of wealth used for Allah’s sake. Estate planning, therefore, should not just be about distributing assets but also about sowing “seeds” of perpetual benefit (Sadaqah Jariyah) that yield blessings in both this life and the Hereafter.

Sadaqah Jariyah: The Eternal Investment

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

“When a person dies, their deeds come to an end except for three: ongoing charity (Sadaqah Jariyah), beneficial knowledge, or a righteous child who prays for them.” (Sahih Muslim)

For an entrepreneur, this Hadith serves as a call to action: wealth can become a source of ongoing reward when directed towards projects that benefit humanity and honor Allah’s trust.

The concept of Sadaqah Jariyah is profound because it establishes a cycle of benefit that continues long after one’s death. Unlike a one-time act of charity, this form of giving is designed to have a lasting impact. It is an investment in the future—one that reaps rewards not just for the giver but for countless beneficiaries who continue to gain from it over time.

Practical Steps to Build an Eternal Legacy

1. Establish a Waqf (Islamic Endowment)

A Waqf is a Shariah-compliant way to dedicate property or wealth for public benefit, such as funding mosques, schools, hospitals, or water wells. By allocating a portion of one’s estate to a Waqf, continuous reward is ensured long after passing. For example, a businessman might endow a vocational training center to empower future generations.

In Islamic history, many scholars, rulers, and businesspeople have used Waqf to sustain social welfare systems. Even today, major educational institutions and healthcare facilities operate as Waqf, serving the community while ensuring the donor’s perpetual reward.

2. Invest in Community Infrastructure

Wealth can be used to fund sustainable projects aligned with Islamic values, such as affordable housing, Islamic microfinance, or renewable energy solutions. These initiatives fulfill the Quranic directive to “spend out of what He has entrusted to you” (Quran 57:7).

Providing access to clean water, developing agricultural projects, and supporting community entrepreneurship are just some ways that wealth can be structured to generate long-term benefit. This form of investment is not just an act of charity—it is a means of economic empowerment that helps lift entire communities out of poverty.

3. Ethical Business Succession

Ensuring a business remains a force for good requires training successors who uphold Islamic ethics. Structuring governance to prioritize halal income, fair labor practices, and social responsibility secures a legacy of integrity. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “Allah loves the believer who works proficiently” (Al-Tabarani)—a legacy of ethical excellence inspires future generations.

A business that prioritizes ethical conduct and social responsibility continues to serve as a source of barakah (blessing). This is why many successful Muslim entrepreneurs ensure their businesses fund charitable activities or contribute to societal development as part of their core mission.

4. Document Charitable Intentions

Clearly outlining Sadaqah Jariyah goals in one’s will and specifying trusted institutions or scholars to oversee them ensures lawful and ethical execution. Collaborating with experts like Fiduciary Services Limited helps ensure charitable goals are met effectively.

Drafting a will that includes provisions for Sadaqah Jariyah ensures that wealth is distributed in accordance with Islamic teachings while maximizing its long-term impact. It also provides clarity for heirs, ensuring they understand and uphold the donor’s legacy of giving.

Case Study: The Merchant Who Built a Legacy

Consider Alhaji Aliko, a successful Nigerian businessman who dedicated a portion of his wealth to funding Islamic education and community projects. Recognizing the importance of knowledge and economic empowerment, he established scholarship programs for underprivileged students, donated a  mosque in Abuja to support FOWMAN(Federation of Muslim Women’s Associations in Nigeria), and funded skill acquisition centers to equip young entrepreneurs. Today, his initiatives continue to provide education, employment, and social support, ensuring his legacy of generosity and impact endures beyond his lifetime.

Throughout Islamic history, many philanthropists have created endowments that continue to benefit societies even today. These contributions extend beyond simple wealth distribution—they represent a mindset of stewardship and responsibility toward Allah’s blessings.

Aligning with the Oath: Wealth as a Tool for Akhirah

The oath reminds us that our careers and wealth are tests of faith. By integrating Sadaqah Jariyah into estate planning, we transcend materialism and embrace our role as khalifah (stewards) of Allah’s resources. This requires:

• Consultation with Scholars: Validate plans with qualified scholars to ensure alignment with Shariah.
• Transparency: Involve family members in discussions to foster unity and understanding.
• Humility: Recognize that wealth is a means, not an end. As the Quran states, “Whatever you spend will be replaced by Him, for He is the Best of Providers” (Quran 34:39).

Conclusion: From Temporal Success to Eternal Significance

For the Muslim entrepreneur, death is not the extinguishing of a flame but the passing of a torch. Through Sadaqah Jariyah and ethical succession, wealth becomes a bridge between dunya and Akhirah—a testament to faith that illuminates generations. Let your legacy be defined not by what you accumulated, but by what you shared in Allah’s name.

By taking proactive steps to embed charitable giving and ethical governance into one’s wealth management strategy, a lasting impact can be made. The question every Muslim entrepreneur should ask is not just how much wealth they will leave behind, but how much good they will continue to generate after they are gone.