Definition

An Islamic charitable endowment where property or land is permanently donated for religious or social welfare purposes, managed by a trustee who ensures it benefits the community in perpetuity. Think of it as the original community foundation, established centuries before modern nonprofits existed. The property itself can't be sold or inherited—it's locked in charitable purpose forever, which is either admirably principled or a medieval estate planning nightmare, depending on your perspective.

Example Usage

The mosque was built on waqf land donated by a wealthy merchant in the 16th century, and it's still supporting community services today.

Source: Wiktionary via Free Dictionary API

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