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ISLAMIC
OUTREACH - Lesson
Twenty-One
The Islamic
social system
For every man/woman to fulfill his/her purpose in life
To
balance rights of individual & rights of society
Ruler
- elected by & responsible to people
People
- responsible for electing, monitoring and guiding ruler
Therefore people need knowledge
duty to
search for 'ilm, especially of Qur'an and Hadith
Social
system based on basic principles from Qur'an and Hadith
The Political System
Ruler
is Caliph not owner - no absolute authority
All
muslims are Khulafah (Caliphs)
so duties are not different except in
degree
Ruler's
authority is to interpret & administer God's Laws
Government
by consultation essential
Ruler
has no right to appoint advisors
without consultation with &
approval of community
Requirements
for public leadership & representation
Piety, honesty, integrity, ability,
knowledge,
wisdom,
willingness to serve
If
rulers are to uphold Islam they must be righteous people
Caliph
has no right to force his ideas on council
(The Prophet constantly took his
companions advice)
People's
representatives must have access to ruler
to give opinions or voice grievances
Subjects
mus give obedience & allegiance within Islam
The Economic System
Basic
principles of wealth considered with Zakat
God
is Absolute Owner - man has on trust
Wealth
of earth is common right of all men
none allowed to deprive others of
their share
Wealth
is 'rizk' to help man fulfill his purpose
to be put to good or active use
a test for man
must be earned through effort (not
games of chance)
Forbidden
to take advantage of poverty
in need to increase wealth
Islamic
system to keep wealth working
to best advantage of individual and
society
Neither
capitalism nor communism
Recognises
variety
some individuals more able and
diligent
get
greater reward
(unlike communism)
Recognises
unity
individuals are restricted in means
of acquiring wealth
(unlike capitalism)
Charity
encouraged and Zakat required
Islam
positively encourages economic activity
Poverty seen as undesirable
Purpose
of economic activity - service of God and Caliphate
Man called to account for actions
Individual
(M & F) has right to own, inherit & sell property
but things belong to God
System
prevents wealth concentration in few people's hands
Ensures economics run according to
Islamic moral values
fairness, justice, equality & honesty
cheating & dishonesty forbidden (poss. unfairness also)
Business
transactions to be put in writing & witnessed
Employers
and employees duties
System
flexible and voluntary
based on laws - based on knowledge
Islamic
Money system & differences to existent
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