Wealth Distribution in the Islamic Economic System Conceptual Foundations and Their Relevance to Contemporary Economic Justice

Abstract

Wealth distribution inequality remains a fundamental challenge in modern economies, where rapid growth often fails to ensure equitable development. In Indonesia, various government programs-such as subsidies, People’s Business Credit (KUR), the Family Hope Program (PKH), and Direct Cash Assistance (BLT)-have aimed to reduce inequality but face issues in targeting accuracy and empowerment orientation. This study elaborates the concept of wealth distribution from an Islamic economic perspective and its relevance to national economic policies. Using a qualitative-descriptive approach with literature review, the study draws from the Qur’an, hadith, and classical to contemporary Islamic economic thought. Findings reveal that Islamic wealth distribution is grounded in four key principles: tauhid (unity), ‘adl (justice), tawāzun (balance), and maṣlaḥah (welfare), implemented through zakat, infaq, sadaqah, waqf, and inheritance. Integrating these principles into national policies can enhance justice, sustainability, and collective welfare (falah).