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Islamic Philanthropy: This refers to charitable giving based on Islamic principles and values. The core concept is that wealth is a trust from God, and Muslims are encouraged to use it for the benefit of others and society.
Key Tools for Islamic Philanthropy:
Zakat: This is one of the five pillars of Islam. It's a mandatory form of charity similar to an alms tax. Muslims calculate a specific percentage of their wealth to donate annually to those in need.
Waqf (Waqf endowment): This is a unique and long-term charitable concept. It involves donating a fixed asset (land, building, money) for a specific charitable purpose. The asset itself cannot be sold or used for anything else, but the income generated from it is used to benefit the designated cause(s) in perpetuity. This creates a sustainable source of charitable giving for generations to come.
Sadaqah (Voluntary Charity): This refers to any voluntary charitable act, not mandated by religion. It can be monetary or non-monetary donations and can be given to any worthy cause.
Sadaqah Jariyah (Continuous Charity): This is a specific type of voluntary charity similar to Waqf, but it can involve any asset, not just fixed ones. The focus is on giving that provides ongoing benefits, such as building a well or funding education.
Key Differences:
Mandatory vs. Voluntary: Zakat is mandatory, while Waqf and Sadaqah are voluntary.
Asset vs. Income: Zakat is typically a portion of your wealth, while Waqf donates the asset itself and uses the income for charity. Sadaqah can be anything of value.
Sustainability: Waqf is specifically designed for long-term, sustainable giving. Zakat and Sadaqah can be one-time or ongoing.
Benefits of Islamic Philanthropy:
Fulfilling Religious Duty: Fulfills the Islamic obligation of helping those in need.
Sustainable Impact: Waqf creates a lasting source of charitable giving.
Variety of Options: Provides diverse ways to give based on resources and intentions.
Community Support: Strengthens communities through social services and development projects.
Overall, Islamic philanthropy emphasizes social responsibility, sustainability, and leaving a positive legacy. It offers a unique approach to charitable giving with a focus on long-term impact and fulfilling religious obligations.
Objective: To document and celebrate the contributions of prominent Muslim philanthropists, past and present..
To create a comprehensive resource on geni.com that showcases the legacy and impact of Islamic philanthropy through the stories of influential figures.
Source:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Islamic_charities
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_philanthropists
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_Congress_of_Muslim_Philanthropists
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Muslim_Philanthropy_Digital_Library
https://www.ifrc.org/get-involved/campaign-us/islamic-humanitarian-...
https://www.unhcr.org/id/en/islamic-philanthropy