Proposed Sharī'ah Solutions to the Problem of Poverty through Holy Qur'ān

Abstract

Poverty is one of the challenges that has faced the Ummah throughout in the past, present and remains a widespread issue in most Muslim countries today. This is either due to the spread of unemployment and lack of job opportunities in these regions, or because of ongoing conflicts and wars that disrupt security, shake stability, and weaken economies. It is also exacerbated by the control of national wealth by a small group of rulers and officials, leading to poor distribution among citizens.

These factors have been major contributors to the spread of poverty in societies throughout historical periods.

When we delve deeply into Holy Qur'ān, seeking solutions and methods of addressing the issue of poverty, we find that Qur'ān—over fourteen centuries ago—addressed poverty comprehensively with precise measures. It closed off all pathways through which poverty could spread among individuals and communities as Qur'ān encourages Muslims to work and earn lawful income, commands them to pursue the lawful means of sustenance, and guides them to effective solutions by which poverty can be reduced and eliminated from the society.

Hence, this paper examines the issue of poverty, shedding light on its definition, the causes of its spread, and the extent of Holy Qur'ān's concern with solving the problem of poverty and caring for the poor. It then presents a collection of Sharī'ah-based solutions to address and combat poverty, derived from a thorough study of various Qur'ānic texts.