Jamiat al-Khairiyyat al-Islamiyyah

Jamiat al-Khairiyyat al-Islamiyyah

Definition and Overview

Jamiat al-Khairiyyat al-Islamiyyah, also known as the Amaliyyah Foundation, is a Lebanese Shii foundation established in 1923. It aims to finance a myriad of welfare activities and religious events, especially ecumenical commemorations of the martyrdom of Husayn ibn Ali. The foundation plays a vital role in enhancing community welfare through various support programs, including the establishment and maintenance of educational institutions.

Etymology and Translations

• Etymology: “Jamiat al-Khairiyyat al-Islamiyyah” can be broken into several Arabic components:

  • Jamiat (جمعية) meaning “association” or “society”
  • al-Khairiyyat (الخيريّة) deriving from khair (خير‎) meaning “good” or “charitable”
  • al-Islamiyyah (الإسلاميّة) relates to “Islam” or “Islamic”.

• Arabic Translation: جمعية الخيريّات الإسلاميّة

• Turkish Translation: İslami Hayır Kurumu Derneği

Historical Background

Founded in 1923 in Lebanon, amidst the dynamic political and religious environment of the time, the Jamiat al-Khairiyyat al-Islamiyyah was conceptualized to address both religious and societal needs, particularly within the Lebanese Shiite community. Over the years, its focus on Husayn commemorations has fostered a sense of unity and cultural identity among its members.

Key Operations and Programs

1. Welfare Activities:

   • Establishment and support of schools in various village settings where only Quranic schools existed previously, which has educationally empowered many communities.
   • Funding healthcare initiatives and providing financial support to underprivileged families.

2. Religious Events:

   • Organizing and financing ecumenical commemorations of the martyrdom of Husayn ibn Ali, including annual events during Muharram.
   • Facilitating religious gatherings, seminars, and lectures that promote Islamic values and Shii heritage.

Significance in Lebanese Society

Jamiat al-Khairiyyat al-Islamiyyah has played a transformative role in shaping educational and social dynamics in various Lebanese villages. By filling the gap left by insufficient educational institutions, the foundation has contributed to raising literacy levels and general educational standards.

Books for Further Study

1. “The Shi’ites: Ritual and Popular Piety in a Muslim Community” by Hélia Smidi: A comprehensive exploration of Shii rituals and community life.
2. “Islamic Charity: In Search of Good and Justice” by Jonathan Benthall: Insights into various Islamic charitable organizations and their impact on society.
3. “The Many Faces of Political Islam” by Mohammed Ayoob: Delving into various Islamic movements and charities within political contexts.

Takeaways and Conclusion

Jamiat al-Khairiyyat al-Islamiyyah stands as a pivotal Shii foundation in Lebanon dedicated to doctrinal commemoration and community welfare. Its dual focus on education and religious events makes it an essential pillar of Lebanese Shii community life.

Understanding such foundations is crucial in appreciating the socio-religious fabric of Lebanon and the broader Islamic world. Their roles underline a blend of tradition and development aimed at uplifting community welfare and preserving cultural identity.

Conclusion

The legacy of Jamiat al-Khairiyyat al-Islamiyyah is testimony to the enduring power of faith-based community initiatives. Its continued support for educational and religious activities reflects a commitment to both spiritual and social upliftment.

For further studies, exploring the listed books offers more comprehensions of Islamic charity dynamics and the specifics of Shii communal activities.