Hardback
Understanding Muslim Philanthropy
This important book locates and defines contemporary Muslim philanthropy and philanthropic institutions within the rich and diverse history of Islamic practice. In doing so, Shariq A. Siddiqui, Rafeel Wasif and Micah A. Hughes examine religious discourses on the topic and question the universality of our current definitions.
More Information
Critical Acclaim
Contents
More Information
This important book locates and defines contemporary Muslim philanthropy and philanthropic institutions within the rich and diverse history of Islamic practice. Shariq A. Siddiqui, Rafeel Wasif and Micah A. Hughes examine religious discourses on the topic and question the universality of our current definitions.
Developing a more expansive understanding of Muslim philanthropy, this book provides a historical overview of Muslim philanthropic practice to examine why they carry out these activities – whether it be for the public good, personal gain, a just society, or the love of God. They consider what these actions tell us about Muslims’ understanding of their relationship with God and their fellow human beings, and whether there is a connection between these two relationships. Through a global range of case studies, chapters provide empirical data on Muslim giving in contemporary society, looking at the practices of zakat and sadaqa, contemporary waqfs, and how Muslim philanthropy is discussed through social media. Ultimately, the book encourages readers to think more critically about the relationship between religion and philanthropy.
Comparative and interdisciplinary in scope, this book is vital for students and scholars of philanthropy, religion, social entrepreneurship, and the sociology of Islam. It is also a valuable resource for policymakers and philanthropists looking to better understand Islamic giving practices and their relationship to philanthropy.
Developing a more expansive understanding of Muslim philanthropy, this book provides a historical overview of Muslim philanthropic practice to examine why they carry out these activities – whether it be for the public good, personal gain, a just society, or the love of God. They consider what these actions tell us about Muslims’ understanding of their relationship with God and their fellow human beings, and whether there is a connection between these two relationships. Through a global range of case studies, chapters provide empirical data on Muslim giving in contemporary society, looking at the practices of zakat and sadaqa, contemporary waqfs, and how Muslim philanthropy is discussed through social media. Ultimately, the book encourages readers to think more critically about the relationship between religion and philanthropy.
Comparative and interdisciplinary in scope, this book is vital for students and scholars of philanthropy, religion, social entrepreneurship, and the sociology of Islam. It is also a valuable resource for policymakers and philanthropists looking to better understand Islamic giving practices and their relationship to philanthropy.
Critical Acclaim
‘A concise and comprehensive introduction to Muslim philanthropy in the contemporary world, this innovative and timely study engages with wide-ranging conversations about Islamic giving practices in the US and around the globe. Combining a deep knowledge of Islam with case studies and important comparative findings, it interrogates how American Muslim philanthropic practices are embedded in the history of philanthropy in America.’
– Amy Singer, Brandeis University, US
‘In these days of rising Islamophobia and viewing Islam as the evil force behind hatred and aggression, it is refreshing to read Understanding Muslim Philanthropy. The authors not only demonstrate that charity, philanthropy, and kindness to others in eighteen Muslim majority and minority countries are essential foundations of Islam, they also show them as part of the rich and diverse history of Islamic practice. This book forces us to consider what philanthropy is and whether Western definitions of philanthropy are the only legitimate ones. Through numerous studies and examples, this book is an eye opener to those who arrogantly dismiss the link between Islam and caring for others.’
– Ram A. Cnaan, University of Pennsylvania, US
‘Understanding Muslim Philanthropy is a fresh and comprehensive exploration of the diversity of and the practices of Muslim philanthropy across the globe. The authors have exposed some of the limitations of the dominant secular and Western definitions of philanthropy used today. A must-read for all interested in advancing positive change today.’
– Dwight Burlingame, Indiana University, US
– Amy Singer, Brandeis University, US
‘In these days of rising Islamophobia and viewing Islam as the evil force behind hatred and aggression, it is refreshing to read Understanding Muslim Philanthropy. The authors not only demonstrate that charity, philanthropy, and kindness to others in eighteen Muslim majority and minority countries are essential foundations of Islam, they also show them as part of the rich and diverse history of Islamic practice. This book forces us to consider what philanthropy is and whether Western definitions of philanthropy are the only legitimate ones. Through numerous studies and examples, this book is an eye opener to those who arrogantly dismiss the link between Islam and caring for others.’
– Ram A. Cnaan, University of Pennsylvania, US
‘Understanding Muslim Philanthropy is a fresh and comprehensive exploration of the diversity of and the practices of Muslim philanthropy across the globe. The authors have exposed some of the limitations of the dominant secular and Western definitions of philanthropy used today. A must-read for all interested in advancing positive change today.’
– Dwight Burlingame, Indiana University, US
Contents
Contents
Introduction to Understanding Muslim Philanthropy
1 What is Muslim philanthropy?
2 Studying Muslim philanthropy through data
3 Zakat in modern America
4 Beyond religious texts: discussion of zakat on social media
5 The practice of sadaqa in Muslim America
6 The waqf: evolution of an institution
Bibliography
Introduction to Understanding Muslim Philanthropy
1 What is Muslim philanthropy?
2 Studying Muslim philanthropy through data
3 Zakat in modern America
4 Beyond religious texts: discussion of zakat on social media
5 The practice of sadaqa in Muslim America
6 The waqf: evolution of an institution
Bibliography
