Shurouq's Sadaqah Jariya (Ongoing Charity) Fund

In Arabic, the name Shurouq (شُرُوق) simply means sunrise. Shurouq Osman was given this name by her parents, because she ushered in a new day in their lives as their first-born. Shurouq grew to be known for the spirit, initiative, and laughter she brought to her everyday life. She was a trailblazer, creating a path marked by grit, optimism, and curiosity. And she was fiercely independent, cultivating a rich inner life for herself. She dedicated much of her free time to her hobbies, art, and to learning. Shurouq was an exemplar in character for family and friends alike.

On the night of January 5th, 2025, Shurouq passed away swiftly and suddenly at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center in Queens, New York, to the dismay of all who knew her. She was thirty years young. As an eldest child, friend to many, and member of the early years of the Sudanese community in Philadelphia, the impact of her death was felt all over the world. Her family in Sudan mourns the memory of a far away relative and the mutual hope to be reunited after years.

The sun set earlier than expected for the Osman family and those near and dear to Shurouq. Still, we hope to remain comforted by the memories we shared with her and the tangible reminders of the impact she’s had on our lives.

In Islam, there is a concept called a Sadaqah Jariya, or ongoing charity, whereby people’s souls can continue to earn rewards on good deeds posthumously. This can be achieved through charitable endeavors set up in their memory, such as funding of a well or educational programs. These acts create a lasting legacy, benefiting those in need presently, and the deceased by helping to ensure continued blessings for them in the hereafter.

This memorial fund has been created to help fund Shurouq’s Sadaqah Jariya. In the near future, the funds to this memorial will be donated to Al-Rashideen Islamic Center in Northeast Philadelphia where her funeral prayer was held. In the long term, the funds will also contribute to a well for the community residing on the land in Sudan from which Shurouq comes. Any and all contributions to this memorial are deeply appreciated and will go a long way, insha’Allah. إِنَّا لِلَّٰهِ وَإِنَّا إِلَيْهِ رَاجِعُون