Waquf

Waquf, often transliterated as waqf, is an Islamic endowment by which a person (the waqif) dedicates a property or asset for a religious or charitable purpose in a way that permits its ongoing use while preserving the principal. The act is generally irrevocable, and ownership is considered to be held for the sake of God, with the asset’s usufruct directed to specified beneficiaries or public needs.

Etymology and concept: The term comes from the Arabic waqf, meaning to stand up or halt, reflecting the setting aside of wealth for divine use. The endowment is intended to provide perpetual or long-term benefit rather than personal gain.

Structure and governance: A mutawalli (custodian or administrator) manages the waquf according to the founder’s instructions (wasiya) or prevailing religious legal principles. The principal asset is typically preserved, while its income—such as rents, dividends, or other returns—is used to support mosques, schools, hospitals, relief programs, or other approved causes. The beneficiary could be a named group, a charitable purpose, or the public at large.

Types and practice: Waqf can be private or family-based (waqf khassa) or public and charitable (waqf amma). Some traditions distinguish between perpetual, unrestricted waqf (waqf mutlaq) and conditional forms or family-bound arrangements (waqf muqawwad or waqf ahli), depending on jurisprudential school.

Legal status: In many countries, waqf properties are regulated by state authorities or dedicated waqf boards, with governance frameworks that vary by jurisdiction. Assets may include real estate, cash, or other holdings.

See also: Endowment; Islamic philanthropy; Waqf board; Mutawalli.