The word is interchangeably used with Zakat and Nafaqa in some contexts, but while zakat is obligatory, Sadaqa usually refers to voluntary donations. Zakat is a required minimum contribution by Muslims in terms of money and property or goods that can help the muslims who mostly need assistance, while Sadaqah can be in forms of money, deeds, property or salutations. The term 'sadaqah' was used in Qur'an and Sunnah for both zakat and charity. Among the differences between them is that in the case of Zakat, the amount is fixed, utilized according to that which has been stated by the Islamic Law and is paid only once a year. Meanwhile, charity has no fixed percentage and one is free to pay it as many times as one can afford or feel inclined to it. Etiquette Sadaqah should be from one's legitimate possessions and property. According to Qur'an 2:274, it is better to offer sadaqah in secret. Sadaqah should not be accompanied by reproaching the person who is given the sadaqa. Sadaqah should be out of pure intentions for God. Sadaqah should be from possessions you love. Categories of the entitled According to Quran 9 verse 60, there are eight categories of people who are entitled to receive Sadaqah (Zakaat). They are: The poor (al-fuqarâ’), that is low-income. The needy people (al-masākīn). The officials appointed to receive Sadaqah (Zakat Administrators). Those whose hearts have been (recently) reconciled to Islam (al-mu'allafa qulubuhum). To free the slaves and captives. Those who are overburdened with debt. In the cause of Allah to spread the message of Islam. To those who are wayfarers (travelers who do not have enough money to go back home). Significance Social contribution It enhances the well-being of the people in Islamic society. It helps in fulfilling the requirement of the poor Muslims. It lightens the debt of the Muslim debtors. It helps in taking care of those whose hearts have been (recently)reconciled (to the Truth). It helps the stranded Muslims to complete their journey. It helps in the healing of various Sickness(according to the prophet of Islam). Spiritual effects It purifies human's heart from the sins of malice, greed, and the obsessive love of wealth. It increases the wealth. It removes bad luck. It helps in crossing the bridge of Siraat. It guarantees heaven. See also Alms Khums Tzedakah (Judaism) Zakat Al-Kaffarah Zidqa, almsgiving in Mandaeism Notes in Literary Arabic: