1. The Waqif (The Donor / Endower)
The Waqif is the person who donates or dedicates the property. For the Waqf to be valid, the donor must:
- Be of sound mind
- Have legal ownership of the asset
- Donate willingly without pressure
2. The Mauquf (The Asset / Property Being Donated)
The Waqf asset must be something beneficial, valuable and permissible in Islam. Examples include:
- Land or buildings
- Water wells
- Schools, hospitals or mosques
- Financial assets or investment shares
3. The Mauquf ‘Alayh (The Beneficiaries)
These are the individuals or groups intended to benefit from the Waqf. Beneficiaries can be:
- The poor and needy
- Students and teachers
- Communities needing healthcare or water
- The general public (public waqf)
4. Sighah (The Declaration / Contract)
This is the formal declaration in which the donor states that the property is now endowed for Allah’s sake. Once declared, the Waqf becomes permanent and cannot be reclaimed.
Types of Waqf in Islam
Scholars classify Waqf into several categories based on purpose and beneficiaries:
- Family Waqf: designated for family members or descendants
- Charitable Waqf: dedicated to the poor and community services
- Public Waqf: for public institutions such as schools, mosques and hospitals
Conclusion: A System Built for Eternal Benefit
The pillars of Waqf create a structure that ensures transparency, permanence and impact. Understanding these foundations helps us appreciate why Waqf remains one of the greatest engines of social welfare in Islamic history.
Support a Waqf today and become part of a legacy that continues long after you’re gone.
