Waqf and its role in achieving the objectives of Shari’ah: An analytical and applied study
Keywords:
Maqasid al-sharia’h, Waqf, Humanity, Islamic law, Charity,Abstract
Prosperity of the humanity is one of the main purpose of Islamic Sharia. To achieve this objective, different instructions and guidelines have been issued in the form of obligatory as well as optional charity. Waqf is also one of the optional donation which may be made for the society to alleviate poverty and accomplish the supreme objectives of Sharia (Maqasid Sharia) which is based on benefit (Maslahah) to mankind and prevention it from Corruptive (Mafsadah). Although the practice of waqf is also found in pre-Islamic era but it was considered the monopoly of religious entities, like priest etc. Islam endorsed the practice on humanitarian bases for the benefit of the whole society. In this study, the waqf model of charity along with some contemporary issues that hamper the continuation of the charity is examined. Solution of the issues in the light of Sharia is also proposed. Role of waqf to achieve the objective of sharia is also deliberated in detail. It is observed that Waqf has very important role on attaining the objectives of Sharia.