Demanding Agreement from Islamic Philanthropic Institutions in Indonesia: Reinterpretation of Poverty and Implementation of Zakat

Abstract

Zakat is still interpreted as a matter of ritual and fiqh that is limited to aborting obligations. The absence of agreement between Islamic-based philanthropic institutions and the absence of clerical support to produce contemporary fatwas related to zakat are challenges in terms of zakat management. The development of the times and the increasingly complex dynamics of society demand a reconstruction of poverty; definition, broader meaning, and implementation of praxis. The presence of specific fatwas has urgency, especially by considering zakat as one of the theological aspects closely related to the aqidah dimension. It is not easy to combine theological aspects with revolutionary and transformative new concepts in the praxis state. This research seeks to propose the concept of reinterpretation of poverty and its implementation, while encouraging policymakers from Islamic faith-based philanthropic institutions in Indonesia to agree to align strategies for alleviating 'new poverty' through zakat management. In the end, the fatwa plays a role in gathering the strength of a solid people so as to realize a sustainable maslahah and al-adalah (justice).