Introduction

In Islamic teachings, human actions are not judged only by their immediate effects, but also by their long-term consequences. Islam introduces the concept of jariyah, which refers to deeds whose effects continue over time, either as ongoing reward or ongoing sin. Because of this, a person may continue to receive reward or bear sin even after they stop the action, and even after death. This concept shows that Islam places strong emphasis on moral and social responsibility for every human action.

This idea is supported by the Qur’an, where Allah says:

“And that a person will have nothing except what they strive for.”
(Qur’an, An-Najm 53:39)

This verse highlights that every effort a person makes—good or bad—will return to them, including actions whose effects continue in the future.

The Meaning of Ongoing Sin (Dosa Jariyah)

Ongoing sin (dosa jariyah) refers to sins that continue to accumulate because of the lasting harmful effects of a person’s actions. These sins do not stop with one act, but continue as long as others are influenced by or benefit from the wrongdoing. Ongoing sin usually happens when someone starts a bad practice, encourages others to commit sinful acts, or provides tools or facilities that make wrongdoing easier.

In this way, a person carries not only their own sin, but also the sin of others who follow or are affected by their actions. This reflects Islam’s emphasis on social responsibility and accountability.

This concept is clearly stated in a hadith of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ:

“Whoever starts a bad practice in Islam will bear its sin and the sin of those who act upon it after him.”
(Hadith, Muslim)

Examples of Ongoing Sin

Examples of ongoing sin include spreading misleading teachings, sharing harmful or immoral content, providing facilities that support sinful behavior, or becoming a bad role model that others imitate. As long as these actions continue to cause harm, the sin continues to be recorded for the person who initiated them.

The Qur’an explains this responsibility in the following verse:

“So they will bear their burdens fully on the Day of Resurrection, and also the burdens of those whom they misled without knowledge.”
(Qur’an, An-Nahl 16:25)

How to Remove Ongoing Sin

Islam does not close the door of forgiveness, even for those who commit ongoing sins. The main way to remove ongoing sin is through sincere repentance (tawbah nasuhah). This includes deep regret, completely stopping the sinful action, and making a strong commitment not to return to it. In addition, a person should try to stop the harmful effects they caused and replace them with positive and beneficial actions.

Allah says in the Qur’an:

“Except for those who repent, believe, and do righteous deeds; for them Allah will replace their bad deeds with good ones.”
(Qur’an, Al-Furqan 25:70)

If the ongoing sin involves harm to other people, repentance is not complete without apologizing and restoring the rights of those who were harmed.

The Meaning of Ongoing Good Deeds (Amal Jariyah)

In contrast to ongoing sin, ongoing good deeds (amal jariyah) are acts of goodness whose rewards continue even after a person has died. These deeds benefit others in a lasting way, and as long as people continue to benefit, the reward keeps flowing to the person who performed the deed.

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ explained this clearly:

“When a person dies, all their deeds end except three: ongoing charity, beneficial knowledge, and a righteous child who prays for them.”
(Hadith, Muslim)

Examples of Ongoing Good Deeds

Examples of ongoing good deeds include helping to build mosques, schools, or public facilities, providing clean water, sharing beneficial knowledge, and supporting social and religious services. As long as these actions continue to help others, the reward remains ongoing.

Allah describes the lasting reward of charity in the Qur’an:

“The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed that grows seven ears.”
(Qur’an, Al-Baqarah 2:261)

The Relationship Between Ongoing Sin and Ongoing Good Deeds

Ongoing sin and ongoing good deeds represent two sides of the same principle: the lasting impact of human actions. Harmful actions continue to bring consequences, while beneficial actions continue to bring reward. For this reason, Islam encourages people to think carefully about the long-term effects of everything they do.

Conclusion

The concepts of ongoing sin and ongoing good deeds show that Islam views human actions in a deep and long-term way. Ongoing sin serves as a warning not to become a source of harm to others, while ongoing good deeds encourage people to leave behind lasting benefits for society. By understanding these concepts, Muslims are encouraged to live responsibly, act ethically, and focus on actions that bring lasting goodness to themselves and others.