Mosque-Based Economic Empowerment: A Textual Analysis of Faith-Driven Community Revitalization in Muslim Societies

Abstract

In recent years, mosque-based economic empowerment initiatives have gained attention as faith-driven approaches to community resilience, particularly in Muslim-majority societies. Rooted in historical Islamic socio-economic institutions such as wakaf, zakat, and bait al-māl, these initiatives seek to harness the mosque's role not only as a spiritual hub but also as a catalyst for local economic growth. Despite their potential, their strategic implementation and sustainability remain underexplored in scholarly literature. This study aims to examine the theoretical foundations, historical precedents, and contemporary models of mosque-led economic programs. Through a qualitative methodology employing textual analysis of classical Islamic texts and modern scholarship, the research explores how these programs align with Islamic economic principles and what models of implementation can be drawn from successful case studies. The findings reveal a deep-rooted synergy between mosque institutions and communal welfare in classical jurisprudence, as well as diverse applications of this principle in modern settings across Indonesia and the broader Muslim world. The study identifies critical factors such as religious legitimacy, community engagement, and institutional governance as drivers of program effectiveness. This research contributes to the discourse on Islamic socio-economic renewal by offering a framework for mosque-based economic empowerment rooted in tradition yet responsive to modern economic challenges. The findings are significant for policymakers, religious leaders, and development practitioners seeking sustainable Islamic development strategies.