المعاصر الشرقية وإشكالية التجريد في الفقر الإسلامي

Integrating Traditional Objectives with Contemporary Legal Reform

Abstract

Poverty remains one of the most pressing issues facing contemporary Islamic societies and the world at large. Despite the enduring importance of social justice, equity, and compassion in Islamic teachings, poverty continues to be a persistent challenge, deeply ingrained in economic, social, and political structures. This study explores the problem of poverty in the context of Islamic thought, particularly focusing on the abstract theoretical frameworks developed within Islamic jurisprudence and their application in the modern era. It seeks to address the complexities of poverty by integrating Islamic ethical principles, such as justice and charity, into current economic and social practices. In the classical Islamic tradition, poverty was often discussed in terms of both material deprivation and spiritual poverty. The Islamic approach to poverty emphasized moral responsibility, social solidarity, and equitable distribution of wealth, underpinned by principles like Zakat (almsgiving) and Sadaqah (voluntary charity). However, the contemporary manifestation of poverty presents new challenges, particularly in the face of global inequality, political instability, and economic systems that often perpetuate wealth disparities. As such, this paper examines the way Islamic scholars and thinkers have approached the problem of poverty in both its material and spiritual forms, while addressing the issue of abstraction within Islamic jurisprudence and the need for its adaptation in the modern world. The concept of abstraction in Islamic thought raises a critical issue when it comes to addressing poverty. While classical Islamic texts provide a rich framework for understanding poverty, translating these principles into practical solutions in the context of today's complex socio-economic environment requires innovative interpretations. This study highlights the tensions between traditional Islamic teachings and contemporary needs, questioning how the abstract legal and ethical guidelines in Islamic jurisprudence can be adapted to modern poverty alleviation strategies. By focusing on the intersection of Islamic values and contemporary social challenges, this paper seeks to explore the role of Islamic institutions, such as Zakat, in addressing both the material and immaterial aspects of poverty. Additionally, it discusses the ethical implications of wealth distribution, the responsibility of individuals and governments in alleviating poverty, and the potential for Islamic economic models to offer sustainable solutions. Through a comprehensive review of existing literature and contemporary case studies, this study aims to contribute to the ongoing discourse on poverty in the Islamic world, proposing strategies that align with both the traditional Islamic framework and the realities of modern economic systems.