Comprehensive Definition of IHTIMĀM (اهتمام)
IHTIMĀM (اهتمام) refers traditionally in Islamic jurisprudence to superintendence or care—specifically, the responsibility and stewardship that a landowner or guardian holds over certain portions of land and resources under their jurisdiction. It conveys not just administrative rights but a deeper sense of ethical responsibility, emphasizing the caretaker’s duty to manage resources wisely, with justice, compassion, and equity.
Etymology
The term “IHTIMĀM” derives from the Arabic root “هتم” (h-t-m) which signifies concern, attentiveness, and careful attention. The form اهتمام implies an active role in showing care, managing, and supervising affairs.
Background and Significance
In Islamic history and thought, IHTIMĀM plays a significant role in illustrating how societies organized agricultural and pastoral communities. Landowners, or those entrusted with land, were expected to go beyond personal gain, focusing on the well-being of the community. The ethos underpinning IHTIMĀM stresses harmony, fair dealing, and social justice, anchored in the principles laid out in the Qur’an and Hadith.
“And do not consume one another’s wealth unjustly or send it [in bribery] to the rulers in order that [they might aid] you [to] consume a portion of the wealth of the people in sin, while you know [it is unlawful]” (Qur’an 2:188).
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Cultural Differences:
- In Western societies, the idea of “stewardship” has often been discussed in environmental contexts.
- Islamic traditions embroider a more integrated framework of moral obligations upon land managers, intertwining economic actions with spiritual wellbeing.
Similarities:
- The idea of stewardship is common across diverse cultures and religious traditions, stressing moral integrity and responsibility in managing resources.
Synonyms
- Stewardship
- Superintendence
- Responsibility
- Custodianship
- Oversight
Antonyms
- Neglect
- Dereliction
- Abandonment
- Mismanagement
Related Terms and Definitions
- Amanah (أمانة): Trust or fiduciary duty bestowed upon a person.
- Khalifah (خليفة): Steward or vicegerent, particularly in the context of humanity’s role in caring for the Earth as representatives of Allah.
- Waqf (وقف): Endowment or trust property intended for charitable or religious purposes.
Exciting Facts
- Through medieval Islamic Golden Age, the concept of IHTIMĀM played a vital role in fostering agrarian reforms and resulting in the flourishing of extensive agricultural lands.
- The principles of IHTIMĀM have been adapted into modern Islamic banking and finance frameworks to promote ethical investment and corporate responsibility.
Quotations from Notable Writers
- Ibn Khaldun: “The role of the ruler and those who manage the land is that of guardianship and justice, ensuring every measure of usufruct returns to benefit the people and the land.”
References and Suggesting Literature
- Nasir, Shariq. “Islamic Jurisprudence: Roots and Norms in Stewardship,” Journal of Islamic Law & Culture, 2018.
- Rahman, Fazlur. Islam and Modernity: Transformation of an Intellectual Tradition. University of Chicago Press, 1984.
- Qutb, Sayyid. Social Justice in Islam. American Council of Learned Societies, 2000.
Quizzes
Inspirational Farewell
As you immerse yourself in the understanding of IHTIMĀM, remember the timeless importance of stewardship and ethical management in all walks of life. May your journey through these concepts inspire you to nurture, protect, and uplift both the land and the communities around you.
— Aliyah Mahmood, October 3, 2023
