Waqf in Islamic Economics and Finance: An Instrument for Socioeconomic Welfare

It describes waqf in accessible terms, focusing on how it helps people, communities, and nations, and how it can help make societies equitable, peaceful, efficient, and more prosperous. It comprises eight key themes, including a brief overview of the historical role of waqf in various periods in Muslim societies in socioeconomic sectors; the evolutionary aspects of waqf as an institution; the role of waqf in promoting entrepreneurship; the role of awqāf system in an economy by facilitating financial and social intermediation; potential options for using waqf as financial intermediation; an overview of the management and regulation of waqf entities; the organizational and legal framework for the institution of waqf; and key findings and recommendations for realizing the capacity of waqf in the pursuit of socioeconomic welfare. Specifically, the book takes Pakistan as a case study.

This research-oriented book is tailored to readers interested in understanding the fundamental concepts of Islamic finance and social welfare, without requiring a background in the discipline. It caters to academics, researchers, policymakers, and those keen on exploring the transformative potential of waqf to achieve societal welfare and shared economic growth.