The Qur’anic Concept of Charity an Approach to Resolve Contemporary Economic Challenges

Abstract

The practice of usury (riba) has become an integral component of contemporary economic systems across secular, liberal, and religious societies. Although widely accepted as a financial mechanism, usury often promotes unjust and exploitative relations that disproportionately burden poor, marginalized, and financially vulnerable individuals. Interest-based economic practices encourage wealth concentration, excessive profit-seeking, and social inequality while weakening ethical responsibility and communal welfare. Existing legal and regulatory frameworks have proven insufficient in eliminating exploitative financial practices disguised as legitimate economic activities. This study examines the Qur’anic concept of charity as an alternative economic approach grounded in justice, compassion, and social responsibility. Using the perspective of Critical Realism, the paper argues that charity functions not merely as an act of personal generosity but as a transformative socio-economic mechanism capable of addressing structural inequality and reducing dependency on exploitative financial systems. The Qur’anic model emphasizes equitable wealth distribution, protection of vulnerable groups, and the promotion of mutual trust and collective wellbeing. The study further contrasts the ethical foundations of capitalism, socialism, and the Qur’anic economic framework. While capitalism prioritizes freedom and profit maximization, and socialism emphasizes equality, the Qur’anic Deen places justice as the central principle governing economic and social relations. The findings suggest that Qur’anic charity provides a humane and universally applicable model for promoting economic justice, reducing inequality, strengthening social solidarity, and fostering sustainable societal prosperity.