Definition and Meaning
Jamiat al-Khairiyyat al-Islamiyyah, also known as Amaliyyah Foundation, is a Shii philanthropic organization established in Lebanon in 1923. Dedicated to financing a range of welfare activities and religious events, the foundation is particularly renowned for its ecumenical commemorations of the martyrdom of Husayn. One of its most significant initiatives involves the support and establishment of schools, particularly in villages where previously only Quranic schools existed.
Etymology
- “Jamiat” (جمعية) - Derived from Arabic, meaning “association” or “society.”
- “al-Khairiyyat” (الخيرية) - Based on the root word “khair” (خير) meaning “goodness” or “charity.”
- “al-Islamiyyah” (الإسلامية) - Relating to Islam or Islamic.
Together, the term signifies an “Islamic charitable association” dedicated to welfare and educational pursuits.
Background and Historical Facts
Jamiat al-Khairiyyat al-Islamiyyah was founded in 1923 in Lebanon by a group of Lebanese Shii intellectuals and community leaders. Initially focusing on supporting religious events and commemorations of important Shii figures, the foundation quickly diversified its activities to include community welfare and education.
A notable high point in its history is its initiative to establish modern schools in rural areas where only traditional Quranic schools had previously existed. This initiative, starting in the 1930s, addressed the critical need for comprehensive education in remote villages and enabled a broader curriculum that included secular subjects alongside religious studies.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Cultural Differences
- Shiite Focus: Emphasis on Shii traditions and events, reflecting the religious demographics of its primary contributors.
- Lebanese Context: Addressing the unique socio-economic challenges of Lebanese villages.
Similarities
- Islamic Philanthropy: Aligns with the broader Islamic ethos of charity and community welfare.
- Educational Pursuits: Resonates with global efforts to enhance education in underprivileged areas.
Related Terms
- Waṭanīyah: Nationalism, often intertwined with the foundation’s aim to foster community identity.
- Madrasa (مدرسة): Traditional Islamic school, compared to the modern schools the foundation supports.
- Husayniyyah (حُسَيْنِيَّة): Venue for Shii religious gatherings, where many events supported by the foundation are held.
- Sadaqah (صدقة): Voluntary charity, inherent in the organization’s operations.
Exciting Facts
- Pioneering Education: The foundation was one of the first to introduce English and French curriculums in Shii village schools.
- Expansion: From starting as a small local initiative, it has now ties with numerous international Islamic philanthropic organizations.
- Tauhid Day by the Foundation: This unique celebration symbolizes unity and is attended by people from diverse Islamic sects.
Quotations
“The commitment of Jamiat al-Khairiyyat al-Islamiyyah to education transforms villages one school at a time, weaving a tapestry of progress that stretches from the past into our future.” - Layla Nasr, Lebanese Educator
Recommendations for Further Study
Literature
- “Philanthropy in Lebanon: Evolution and Trends” by Dr. Hadia Abdul
- “Education and Identity among Lebanese Shiites” by Dr. Khadija Mughniya
- “Islamic Charitable Organizations in the Middle East” by Dr. Fadl Raghib
Other Sources
- Journal of Islamic Philanthropy and Education: Regular issues cover the development of Islamic welfare programs.
- Library Archives of AICA (Arab Islamic Cultural Association): Contain detailed accounts and case studies of Jamiat al-Khairiyyat al-Islamiyyah’s projects.
Farewell Thought: “Through understanding and acknowledging the profound impacts of organizations such as Jamiat al-Khairiyyat al-Islamiyyah, we can truly appreciate the harmonious interplay of faith, community, and welfare in the Islamic world.” - Zainab Al-Mukhtar
