1. Zakat (Charitable Almsgiving)
One of the five pillars of Islam, Zakat is a mandatory act of charity designed to redistribute wealth within society. Muslims who meet certain criteria (such as having a minimum amount of savings) are required to donate a portion of their wealth (usually 2.5%) to those in need. Zakat directly addresses poverty by providing financial assistance to the poor, orphans, the disabled, the indebted, and other marginalized groups.

2. Sadaqah (Voluntary Charity)
In addition to the obligatory Zakat, Sadaqah represents voluntary charity. Muslims are encouraged to give beyond the minimum required, whether in the form of money, goods, or even acts of kindness, to support the less fortunate. There is no fixed amount, and the act is considered highly virtuous.

3. Waqf (Endowment)
Waqf is the practice of dedicating assets (such as land or property) for charitable purposes, creating a long-term source of income to benefit the poor and support social welfare programs. This system can provide sustained financial support for education, healthcare, and other essential services for disadvantaged groups.

4. The Role of the State in Providing Welfare
While individual charity is a key component of Islamic law, the state also has a duty to ensure that the needs of the poor and vulnerable are met. In classical Islamic governance, rulers were expected to implement policies that would alleviate poverty, including the provision of food, shelter, and healthcare. This duty can also extend to the establishment of welfare institutions and systems, such as hospitals, orphanages, and public assistance for the elderly and disabled.

5. Economic Justice and Fair Distribution
Islamic law emphasizes economic justice, with a strong focus on fair distribution of wealth and the prohibition of practices that contribute to inequality, such as usury (riba). The goal is to prevent wealth from accumulating solely in the hands of a few and to ensure that basic needs are accessible to everyone. The concept of fair trade and just wages is also embedded in Islamic principles, encouraging equitable treatment in economic transactions.

6. Debt Relief and Assistance
Islamic law emphasizes the importance of supporting those in debt, and it allows for measures such as debt forgiveness. The Quran and Hadiths contain several teachings about helping those who are struggling with financial burdens, particularly if they are unable to repay their debts.

7. Social Welfare as a Collective Responsibility
Poverty is viewed not only as an individual issue but as a collective societal responsibility. The community is encouraged to support one another, and it is believed that wealth should circulate to ensure that no one is left destitute. This collective responsibility is also reflected in the Islamic concept of brotherhood and mutual aid.

8. Promoting Dignity and Self-Sufficiency
While charity is important, Islamic law also encourages initiatives that help individuals achieve self-sufficiency. For example, providing access to education, skills training, and employment opportunities is seen as essential to lifting people out of poverty while preserving their dignity. Islam stresses that the goal is not to create dependency, but to empower individuals and communities to thrive.

In conclusion, Islamic law addresses poverty through a combination of individual acts of charity (Zakat and Sadaqah), institutional measures (Waqf), economic justice, and the state’s responsibility to ensure social welfare. These principles work together to create a system that aims to alleviate poverty and promote social and economic equity