Sadqa for the Deceased (Isal-e-Sawab): How to Give on Behalf of Your Loved Ones

Losing a parent or loved one leaves a gap nothing can fill. Islam gives us a meaningful way to stay connected and keep benefiting them: Sadqa on behalf of the deceased, commonly called Isal-e-Sawab (sending reward). This guide explains what the Quran and Sunnah say about it, what kinds of Sadqa you can give, and how families in Lahore and overseas arrange a Sadqa goat for their departed loved ones.

Does Sadqa Benefit the Deceased?

Yes. This is supported by authentic hadith and agreed upon by the major schools of thought:

• Sa’d ibn Ubadah (RA) asked the Prophet ﷺ whether it would benefit his late mother if he gave charity on her behalf. The Prophet ﷺ said yes (Sahih Bukhari).
• The Prophet ﷺ said that when a person dies, their deeds end except for three: ongoing charity (Sadqa Jariyah), beneficial knowledge, and a righteous child who prays for them (Sahih Muslim).

So every Sadqa you give for your parents, grandparents, spouse or child who has passed away is a gift that reaches them, in sha Allah.

What Is Isal-e-Sawab?

Isal-e-Sawab means doing a good deed with the intention that its reward goes to a deceased person. Common forms include:

• Feeding the poor: including a Sadqa goat whose meat goes to needy families
• Giving money, clothing or ration to those in need
• Sadqa Jariyah: installing a water pump, supporting a madrassa, or sponsoring an orphan’s education
• Dua and recitation: praying for forgiveness for the deceased

Is There a Fixed Day for Isal-e-Sawab Sadqa?

Islam does not require a specific day for giving Sadqa on behalf of the deceased; it can be given at any time and as often as you wish. Many Pakistani families give Sadqa around particular days such as the soyem, the chaliswan or the yearly barsi, while others prefer not to tie it to set dates. Scholars of different schools hold different views on these customs. What everyone agrees on is that sincere charity given at any time benefits the deceased. Follow the guidance of a scholar you trust.

Why a Sadqa Goat for a Loved One?

A goat Sadqa is a practical way to feed many people at once. Fresh meat is something many families in Lahore can rarely afford, so every portion is genuinely valued. Many families also find comfort in knowing that dozens of people received a meal in their loved one’s name. To understand the wider meaning of Sadqa, read our guide to Sadqa in Islam.

How to Give a Sadqa on Behalf of the Deceased

1. Make your intention: that the reward of this Sadqa reaches your loved one, mentioning their name.
2. Choose your Sadqa: a goat, money, food or a Sadqa Jariyah project.
3. Give it to deserving people: those genuinely in need, such as widows, orphans, daily-wage families and madrassa students.
4. Make dua: for forgiveness and mercy for the person who has passed away.

For Overseas Families: Sadqa Back Home in Pakistan

Many Pakistanis abroad lose a parent who lived in Lahore, and want their Sadqa to benefit the community their parent belonged to. With Aqeeqah.pk you can:

• Book online or on WhatsApp from the UK, USA, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Canada or Australia
• Share your loved one’s name so it is mentioned with the intention at the time of sacrifice
• Receive HD video proof on WhatsApp
• Have 100% of the meat distributed to needy families, widows, orphanages and madrassas in Lahore
• Or have it delivered to relatives in Lahore, for example for a gathering at the family home

See prices and the booking process in our guide to Sadqa goats in Lahore and online from abroad.

Sadqa Packages for Isal-e-Sawab

• Standard Sadqa Goat: Rs 30,000 (20–23 kg live, 9–10 kg meat)
• Premium Sadqa Goat: Rs 40,000 (two-teeth, 25–28 kg live, 11–12 kg meat)
• Platinum Sadqa Goat: Rs 50,000 (30–35 kg live, 14–15 kg meat)

Some families book a Sadqa every year on their loved one’s anniversary, or one on behalf of each parent. Just tell us the names and dates and we will arrange it.

A Gentle Reminder

Grief is heavy, and practical arrangements can feel overwhelming. You don’t need to source an animal, find a butcher or arrange distribution yourself. Our team handles every step with care and respect, so you can focus on your family and your duas.

Note: This article offers general guidance. For specific rulings, please consult a qualified scholar.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Sadqa reach the deceased?

Yes. Authentic hadith in Sahih Bukhari confirm that charity given on behalf of a deceased parent benefits them.

Is there a fixed day to give Sadqa for the deceased?

No. Sadqa for the deceased can be given at any time. Some families give on particular days by custom, but charity given at any time benefits them.

Can I give Sadqa for my late parents in Lahore while living abroad?

Yes. Book online with Aqeeqah.pk, share your loved one's name, and receive HD video proof while the meat is distributed to needy families in Lahore.

What is Sadqa Jariyah?

Ongoing charity whose benefit continues, such as a water pump, supporting a madrassa or sponsoring an orphan's education. Its reward continues to reach the deceased.