Islamic Endowments as a Development Tool in Major Islamic Cities (Baghdad, Cairo, Cordoba)

Abstract

This study examines the role of Islamic endowments as a development tool in major Islamic cities, focusing on Baghdad, Cairo, and Cordoba. The study adopts a comparative analytical approach, reviewing the conceptual framework of endowments and their historical development, followed by their practical role in developing the education, health, and community services sectors.

The study demonstrates that Islamic endowments were an independent institution that managed their resources and directed them toward development goals without state interference. This enabled their continuity and stability over time. Endowments contributed effectively to funding schools, universities, and hospitals, and to providing salaries for teachers and doctors. In Baghdad, successful endowment models emerged, such as the Mustansiriya School, which represented an advanced model of endowment education and the provision of salaries for teachers, contributing to the dissemination of knowledge and scientific research. In Cairo, endowments focused more on social and healthcare, particularly during the Mamluk and Ottoman eras, providing extensive support to the poor, sponsoring hospitals and schools, and strengthening the community service network. Cordoba, meanwhile, represented the perfect model of scientific and cultural endowments, supporting schools, libraries, and scientific trips.

The research concluded that the weakness of contemporary endowment institutions is due to the absence of a modern development vision and weak management, rather than to the concept of endowment itself. Therefore, the research recommends reconsidering endowments as an effective tool for sustainable development by modernizing management mechanisms and linking them to the needs of contemporary society to achieve a deeper impact on social and economic development. In addition, the laws and regulations governing endowments in many countries lack the flexibility necessary for modern investment, preventing the productive and sustainable exploitation of endowment resources. Accordingly, the study recommends reconsidering endowment management mechanisms and updating them to include effective governance systems characterized by transparency and accountability.