Doha, Qatar: The Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs, represented by its Department of Islamic Research and Studies, has released the 217th volume in its “Kitab Al-Ummah” series, focusing on the role of social solidarity in strengthening community security, protecting social rights and promoting sustainable development.
Titled “Social Solidarity: From Theoretical Foundations to Practical Implementation”, the book is authored by Professor Dr Mohammed Abdul Halim Bishi. It is the fourth and final volume in the series “Social Solidarity… The Response of Human Nature to Divine Revelation”, which examines social solidarity as a central act of worship and its contribution to creating a cohesive and secure society.
The publication explores the foundations of social solidarity in the Holy Quran and the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (Peace and blessings be upon him), highlighting pioneering examples of its application during the Makkan and Madinan periods of Islamic history. It also examines how these practices contributed to building the state and establishing the foundations of the early Muslim community in Madinah.
The book addresses contemporary jurisprudential issues related to solidarity, relief and assistance, including administrative and procedural matters, support for non-Muslims, the use of solidarity funds for outreach and promoting Islam, and financial and criminal issues such as taxes, cooperative insurance and criminal solidarity. It also examines questions concerning eligibility for assistance and proposes individual and institutional approaches to addressing these challenges, drawing on both classical and contemporary Islamic jurisprudence.
Particular attention is given to the relationship between social solidarity and community security, including the protection of public rights, preservation of individual and collective identity, and promotion of ethical values. The publication also highlights its contribution to achieving the objectives of Islamic law, including protecting life, intellect, wealth and family, strengthening intellectual security, countering extremism, combating poverty and supporting community development.
Speaking about the publication, Director of the Department of Islamic Research and Studies Sheikh Dr Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Ghanem Al Thani said one of its key features was its practical and forward-looking approach, which draws on Qatar’s experience in supporting social solidarity and establishing institutions dedicated to this work. He noted that Qatar has long demonstrated interest in and support for solidarity initiatives, making its experience a model referenced in the book’s proposed framework for putting social solidarity into practice.
