Real stories of waqf in action – from the time of the Messenger ﷺ until today.
Quba Mosque in Medina
This is widely considered the first waqf in history. In the first year after his Hijrah to Medina, the Messenger ﷺ purchased some land which he endowed as a waqf for a mosque to be built; this became Quba Mosque, which still stands today.
The seven orchards
Mukhairiq, a Jewish ally of the Messenger ﷺ bequeathed his seven orchards to Muhammad ﷺ upon his death in the Battle of Uhud. The Messenger ﷺ endowed the orchards as a waqf, its produce to benefit the community.
Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque and University
In the ninth century, Fatima al-Fihri founded al-Qarawiyyin Mosque in Fes, which became an important religious centre and an intellectual hub through its university – one of the oldest in the world.
Zaytouna Mosque
Built in the 7th and 8th centuries, it was the second mosque built in North Africa. It’s an early example of pooled donations, with 703 people donating to build this waqf.
In modern times…
Al Azhar University
Established in the year 975, Al Azhar is one of the most prestigious educational institutions in the world today, specialising in the teaching of Islamic sciences, Sharia, the Quran, theology, as well as non-religious subjects.
The clock tower of Mecca
In 2008, the clock tower of Mecca was established as a waqf. The proceeds from rental income generated by the businesses and restaurants here directly go towards the maintenance and services of the Holy Mosque.
Dompet Dhuafa Hospital, Indonesia
This hospital was established through waqf by the Dompet Dhuafa Foundation. This hospital is a prime example of how waqf can be utilized to support healthcare services in contemporary settings.
International Islamic University Malaysia
Established in 1983 and supported by waqf funds, which help finance scholarships, research, and infrastructure development. This waqf ensures that the university can continue to sustainably provide a quality education and support poorer students.
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said,
When a person dies, his deeds come to an end, except for three: ongoing charity, knowledge that is benefited from, and a righteous child who prays for him.”
(Sahih Muslim)
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