The Role of the Religious Endowment Institution in the Advancement of Islamic Society: An Approach Based on the Higher Objectives of Islamic Law

Abstract

The higher objectives of Islamic law—known as Maqasid al-Shariah—are among the most effective guiding principles for revitalizing, reconstructing, and modernizing Islamic society. From the era of the second Caliph of Islam up to the present-day Islamic governments, the principle of public welfare (Maslaha) has had a broad and lasting impact on progress and development. This principle has been especially emphasized among Sunni scholars, while in Shia scholarship—due to differences in sources, the structure of legal reasoning (ijtihad), and historical context—it has had comparatively less prominence.A Maqasid-oriented approach within the intellectual tradition of Islamic scholars centers on the benefits and aims of Islamic law, intended to promote human welfare and happiness in three main areas: essential needs (necessities), complementary needs (needs), and desirable refinements (enhancements). Within this framework, the values of charity, altruism, sacrifice, and goodwill are expressed through the noble tradition of religious endowment (waqf)—which plays vital roles in religious, social, health, and cultural domains.Rooted in Islamic values and core legal principles, and guided by the objectives of Islamic law, the institution of endowments can support the development of a modern Islamic society on both local and global scales. Within the broader narrative of Islamic civilization, endowments are seen as gateways to solving many of the challenges faced by Muslim communities.This study follows a descriptive-analytical method, with data collected through library and document-based research. Information was sourced from credible books, software platforms, and websites, then categorized, examined, and analyzed.The key finding underscores the importance of revisiting and expanding the scope of the higher objectives of Islamic law in various fields of Islamic jurisprudence—especially in relation to building a renewed Islamic civilization—and in shaping people’s lifestyles. Endowments, when guided by these higher objectives, have a significant influence on scientific, cultural, and security affairs across the Muslim world.