The Role of Zakat in Achieving Economic Development

Abstract

This paper examines the role of Zakat in achieving economic development in Islamic societies, drawing on Islamic jurisprudence and contemporary economic theories. The study starts from a central problem: most Islamic countries suffer from poverty, unemployment, and ignorance, despite having vast financial potential that can be mobilized through the Zakat system. The study uses an inductive methodology linking Islamic jurisprudence with contemporary economic challenges. It concludes that Zakat, if properly collected and distributed, is capable of achieving comprehensive economic development.