The role of scholars and governments in Waqf
Waqf is a significant religious and civilisational asset that can be relied upon to improve the conditions of Muslims and contribute to their development and revival.
However, for Waqf to fulfil its purpose effectively it needs to be supported and developed by scholars, leaders, and governments alike, with each raising awareness about its importance in their respective capacities.
The role of scholars and leaders
Scholars and leaders need to educate their communities about Waqf as a large section of Muslims are unaware of the status of Waqf in the Islamic social system and the significant roles Waqf has played throughout Islamic history. Even those who are aware often have limited knowledge that does not extend beyond Waqf is limited to building mosques and similar activities. They are unaware that Waqf can address poverty, ignorance and disease for example, by contributing to education, scientific research, and the establishment of essential infrastructure for community development.
Those in positions of leadership and influence over Muslim communities should actively encourage engagement with Waqf and academic institutions should provide the research and resources for the community to understand Waqf, its mission, and its terms and conditions.
Waqf in our current era also requires the development of Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh) regarding the laws of Waqf and its conditions. This should ensure that the understanding of Waqf does not remain confined to previous eras but can be applied to help meet the needs of communities today.
The role of governments
Governments in the Islamic world are not only responsible for taking care of Waqf, as inherited institutions that must be supervised, but also for considering it a trust that must be cared for and developed. Furthermore, governments need to consider Waqf as a fundamental pillar for the development and advancement of society.
Measures that governments should take include:
Participating and leading in organising awareness campaigns conducted by scholars and leaders about the importance of Waqf.
Adopting complete transparency and rigour in managing Waqf funds and properties, and involving scholars and trustworthy individuals in their management and supervision.
Facilitating laws, legislations, and administrative procedures for Waqf, prioritising Waqf donors who do not seek personal gain but wish to benefit the entire society.
Allowing Waqf owners to choose the method they see fit for managing their Waqf. There is no disagreement among scholars that a Waqf owner has the right to remain the supervisor and manager of their Waqf, as well as the right to delegate this to anyone they choose, whether during their lifetime or after their death.
