Homelessness – A Modern World Crisis and Its Islamic Solution

In the 21st century, despite immense global wealth and technological advancement, homelessness remains a critical issue, affecting millions of people worldwide. From developed cities to underdeveloped regions, the sight of individuals living without shelter, food, and dignity reflects a deep social, economic, and moral crisis.

Homelessness is not just about lacking a roof over one’s head—it represents a failure of society to protect its most vulnerable members. Islam, as a complete way of life, addresses such problems at their root, offering sustainable and humane solutions.

What is Homelessness?

Homelessness is the condition of individuals or families who lack stable, safe, and adequate housing. It includes people living on the streets, in temporary shelters, or in other insecure arrangements. Homelessness can be chronic (long-term) or transitional (short-term due to crisis).

Causes of Homelessness

1. Poverty – Inability to afford housing due to low income.
2. Unemployment – Loss of livelihood leaves individuals helpless.
3. Mental illness or disability – Many homeless individuals suffer from untreated health conditions.
4. War and displacement – Refugees often become homeless.
5. Natural disasters – Earthquakes, floods, and other calamities displace thousands.
6. Social injustice – Discrimination, domestic violence, and lack of support systems.

Effects on Society

• Increased crime due to survival desperation.
• Health crises due to unhygienic conditions and lack of medical care.
• Social division and the breakdown of community values.
• Wastage of human potential when people cannot contribute to society meaningfully.

The Islamic Perspective on Homelessness

Islam does not ignore homelessness or poverty—it directly addresses it. The teachings of the Qur’an and the life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ show deep concern for the poor, the displaced, and the homeless.

Islamic Solutions to Homelessness

1. Zakat (Obligatory Charity)

Zakat is a pillar of Islam and a direct command for wealth redistribution to eliminate poverty and homelessness.

Qur’an Reference:
“And establish prayer and give zakah, and whatever good you put forward for yourselves—you will find it with Allah.”
Surah Al-Baqarah (2:110)

Zakat is meant specifically for:
“…the poor and the needy…”
Surah At-Tawbah (9:60)

If properly implemented, Zakat can finance housing, support displaced families, and create self-reliant communities.

2. Sadaqah (Voluntary Charity)

Beyond Zakat, Islam encourages constant voluntary charity (Sadaqah) to support those in need.

Hadith Reference:
“The believer’s shade on the Day of Resurrection will be his charity.”
[Sahih al-Bukhari 1343]

Sadaqah can help fund shelters, food programs, and community rehabilitation centers.

3. Waqf (Endowment System)

The Waqf system is one of Islam’s most powerful tools for long-term social welfare and poverty eradication. It refers to permanently dedicating a property or asset for the sake of Allah, so that its benefits are used for charitable or public good, while the asset itself remains intact.

Purpose of Waqf

• Provide sustainable help to the poor, including housing, food, and education.
• Build public infrastructure like hospitals, schools, mosques, orphanages, and inns.
• Support widows, orphans, travelers, refugees, and the homeless.

Historical Examples of Waqf

Throughout Islamic history:

• Waqf properties funded free accommodations for the homeless and shelters for travelers.
• In the Ottoman Empire, thousands of waqf foundations existed, including those for feeding the poor and providing medical care.
• There were even waqf arrangements for feeding animals, showing the depth of Islamic compassion.

Hadith Reference

“When a man dies, his deeds come to an end except for three: Sadaqah Jariyah (a continuous charity), knowledge which is beneficial, or a virtuous descendant who prays for him.”
[Sahih Muslim 1631]

Waqf is a form of Sadaqah Jariyah—a continuous charity that keeps benefiting people for generations.

4. Brotherhood and Social Responsibility

Islam encourages believers to view each other as a family, creating a society of care and empathy.

Hadith Reference:
“He is not a believer whose stomach is filled while the neighbor to his side goes hungry.”
[Sahih al-Bukhari, Adab al-Mufrad]

This command extends to providing shelter, food, and emotional support to the homeless in our communities.

5. The Hijrah & Ansar – A Golden Example of Brotherhood

The Hijrah (Migration) from Makkah to Madinah was not just a political movement—it was a powerful social event. When the Muhajirun (emigrants) left behind homes, families, and wealth to escape persecution in Makkah, they entered Madinah as homeless refugees.

The Ansar (Helpers) of Madinah displayed unmatched Islamic brotherhood by welcoming them wholeheartedly.

Qur’an Reference:
“And those who, before them, had homes (in Madinah) and had adopted the faith, love those who emigrate to them and find no hesitation in their hearts in helping them. They give them preference over themselves, even though they may be in need.”
Surah Al-Hashr (59:9)

Example of True Brotherhood

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ paired each Muhajir with an Ansari in a bond of brotherhood (Mu’akhat). One of the most beautiful examples is:

• The Ansari Sa’d ibn ar-Rabi’ offered half his wealth and even offered one of his wives in marriage to Abdur-Rahman ibn Awf so he would feel at home.
• Abdur-Rahman ibn Awf replied, “May Allah bless your family and wealth. Just show me the market,” and began working to support himself.

This brotherhood was not superficial—it was sincere, deep, and practical. This event sets the gold standard for how Muslims should support the homeless, the displaced, and the needy even today.

Conclusion

The Waqf system and the spirit of Hijrah together offer a blueprint for eliminating homelessness in today’s world. If Muslims revive these teachings:

• Wealth would be shared,
• Shelter would be offered without hesitation,
• And no human being would be left hungry or without a roof.

Islam teaches that the dignity of every person is sacred. Through Zakat, Sadaqah, Waqf, and Brotherhood, we can build a world where compassion overcomes crisis—and no soul sleeps on the street while others enjoy excess.