Ownership And Property In Islam: A Justice And Social Responsibility Perspective

Abstract

The concept of ownership and wealth in Islam constitutes a fundamental aspect of Islamic economic thought, as it regulates how individuals acquire, utilize, and distribute wealth in a just and ethical manner. In the context of contemporary economic challenges such as wealth inequality, resource monopolization, and the lack of social responsibility in wealth management, Islamic principles offer a normative framework that views wealth not as absolute private property, but as a trust (amanah) from Allah. This study aims to analyze the concept of ownership and wealth in Islam, focusing on individual ownership, public ownership, state ownership, the social function of wealth, and ethical principles governing wealth management. This research employs a qualitative approach using a literature review method. Data were collected from relevant academic journals, books, and scholarly articles, and analyzed using descriptive-qualitative and normative approaches based on Islamic teachings derived from the Qur'an and Hadith. The findings indicate that Islam recognizes individual ownership as legitimate, provided it is acquired and utilized through legal means, while also imposing social and ethical responsibilities. Furthermore, Islam establishes public ownership for resources essential to collective welfare and assigns the state a strategic role in managing key sectors to ensure equitable distribution and economic stability. Wealth in Islam also carries a strong social function, implemented through mechanisms such as zakat, infaq, sadaqah, waqf, and bequests. Overall, the Islamic framework of ownership and wealth offers a balanced system integrating individual rights, social justice, and moral accountability.