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About Waqf

What is WAQF?

In Islam, a ``Waqf`` refers to a religious endowment or charitable foundation established by an individual, often with the intention of providing ongoing support for specific social, educational, or charitable causes. The concept of Waqf has deep historical roots in Islamic tradition and is considered a form of perpetual charity.

Here are key aspects of Waqf in Islam:

Definition: Waqf is derived from the Arabic root meaning “to stop” or “to hold.” In the context of Islam, it signifies the act of dedicating a particular asset, property, or wealth to benefit the community or fulfill charitable purposes.

Purpose: The primary objective of creating a Waqf is to perpetually benefit society and fulfill religious, educational, or humanitarian needs. Waqf assets can include land, buildings, money, or any valuable property.

Founder (Waqif): The person who establishes the Waqf by dedicating their assets for charitable purposes is known as the “Waqif.” The Waqif retains the legal ownership of the assets but relinquishes the right to use or profit from them personally.

Trustee (Mutawalli): A Mutawalli is appointed to manage and administer the Waqf on behalf of the Waqif. This individual ensures that the assets are used in accordance with the founder’s intentions and Islamic principles.

 

 

Categories of Waqf: Waqf can be categorized into two main types:

Waqf Khayri: Established for charitable purposes, such as supporting schools, hospitals, or providing aid to the poor.
Waqf Ahli: Created for the benefit of specific individuals, like the Waqif’s family, with restrictions on who can benefit from it.
Perpetuity: One of the distinctive features of Waqf is its perpetual nature. The endowed assets are meant to generate continuous benefits, and the capital remains intact, with only the income or usage directed toward the specified charitable causes.

Legal Framework: Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh) provides the legal framework for the establishment and management of Waqf. Various schools of thought within Islam have specific rules and guidelines regarding Waqf, ensuring its compliance with Islamic principles.

Examples of Waqf: Throughout history, numerous Waqf foundations have been established, contributing to the development of mosques, schools, hospitals, and other community-oriented projects. The Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem, for instance, has a long history of being sustained through Waqf contributions.

Waqf plays a crucial role in promoting social welfare and economic equity within Islamic societies, reflecting the broader Islamic principle of charitable giving and community support. The concept embodies the idea that the act of giving can have a lasting impact on the well-being of society.

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