Divine Money: Islam, Zakat, and Giving in Palestine

In Islamic tradition, mutual aid or zakat giving is a sacred practice that provides critical support to households in financial distress. In Divine Money, Emanuel Schaeublin explores how zakat institutions and direct zakat donations work in the social and political context of contemporary Palestine, and how embedding care in Islamic scripture helps community members negotiate social tensions. Acts of zakat giving are seen as an expression of God's generosity and evidence of His infinite ability to provide.

Format: Hardback
Length: 184 pages
Publication date: 03 October 2023
Publisher: Indiana University Press

In the vibrant tapestry of Palestinian communities nestled within the West Bank, where the Islamic tradition weaves its essence into the very fabric of public life, a profound practice emerges: the act of mutual aid or zakat giving. It holds a sacred significance, transcending mere material transactions and imbuing them with a profound spiritual essence. In this realm, a simple gesture of offering money or food to a person in need summons the divine presence, evoking a sense of awe and gratitude.

In his insightful book, "Divine Money," Emanuel Schaeublin delves into the intricate workings of zakat institutions and direct zakat donations, providing a vital lifeline to households grappling with financial distress. Through meticulous ethnographic fieldwork in the ancient city of Nablus, Schaeublin unravels the intricate tapestry of how zakat institutions function within the social and political context of contemporary Palestine. He explores how embedding care within Islamic scripture empowers community members to navigate the often-tense social dynamics that arise around differences in financial security.

In the absence of a robust public safety net, acts of zakat giving take on a profound meaning, representing an expression of God's boundless generosity and a testament to His infinite capacity to provide. These invocations of the divine during charitable interactions not only offer solace and support to the less fortunate but also serve as a guiding light, empowering individuals to live a righteous and ethical Muslim life, even in the face of political repression and economic stagnation.

Moreover, zakat giving fosters a sense of community cohesion and solidarity, as individuals come together to alleviate the suffering of their fellow human beings. It serves as a powerful reminder of our shared humanity and the interconnectedness of our lives, transcending boundaries of religion, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. Through this collective effort, individuals not only alleviate the immediate needs of the less fortunate but also contribute to the overall well-being and prosperity of their community.

In conclusion, mutual aid or zakat giving is a cherished practice in Islam, deeply rooted in the spiritual and social fabric of Palestinian communities. It embodies the essence of compassion, generosity, and unity, providing critical support to those in need and fostering a sense of belonging among community members. By embracing the principles of zakat, individuals can not only alleviate poverty but also embody the highest ideals of Islam, cultivating a society that is both just and compassionate.

Weight: 432g
Dimension: 159 x 236 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780253066565