The institutional philosophy of waqf and social businesses

This study focuses on the institution and idea of waqf and researches the "institutional philosophy of being" which enabled existence of waqf institution through the centuries and "organizational characteristics" emerged from this philosophy. In this research, it is aimed to demonstrate "the civilization mindset", which enabled the restrengthening of Islamic civilization that was in regression between 10th and 13th centuries, also appeared as the philosophy of existence for the "institutional entities" created by this civilization. Concepts related to this philosophy of being are examined through "founding axis personalities". The multidimensional approach followed by the study approaching the waqf institution and its historical development from a different perspective requires a detailed examination of its philosophical dimension in addition to economical and historical aspects. This philosophy of civilization is attributed to location of restrengthening and emerging civilization branches in Anatolia (Anatolian Seljuks and Ottomans) and defined as "Anatolian Islamic Vision". "Oneness of being" approach, which exists in the core of this concept is presented as the "founding philosophy of being or mindset" of this revival. The purpose and operational characteristics of waqf institution that was improved by restrengthening of Islamic civilization are discussed from the perspective of this philosophy of being. Based on this founding philosophy, physical and moral development activities initiated via waqfs are subjected to a new study within the concept of "jollification". Waqf institution's philosophy of being is compared to establishment purpose of social businesses with the examples of cash waqfs and funds.