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: Paperback / softback
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 the realm of mere charity and imbuing it with a profound spiritual dimension. In these neighborhoods, where the divine presence is felt in every corner, a simple gesture of offering money or food to a person in need summons the benevolent gaze of God.

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 the teachings of Islamic scripture empowers community members to navigate the often-tense social dynamics that arise from disparities in financial security.

In the absence of a robust public safety net, acts of zakat giving take on an even greater meaning, serving as 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 those in need but also serve as a guiding light, illuminating the path to a good and ethical Muslim life, even in the face of political repression and economic stagnation.

Divine Money offers a profound exploration of the multifaceted role of zakat in shaping the lives of individuals and communities. It sheds light on the ways in which zakat institutions and direct donations foster resilience, promote social harmony, and uphold the values of compassion and solidarity. Through its rich narrative and insightful analysis, the book serves as a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, and individuals seeking to deepen their understanding of the Islamic tradition and its profound impact on the world.

Weight: 298g
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780253066572