An integrated Islamic framework for Aṣnāf entrepreneurship: Synergizing financial, human, and spiritual capital

Mohd 'Adli Zahri; Fatin ‘Alia Zahri; Nooramira Ghazali; Norafzan Awang; Zahri Hamat

doi:10.33102/uij.692

Authors

Mohd 'Adli Zahri School of Social Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7808-9453
Fatin ‘Alia Zahri University College Bestari, Terengganu
Nooramira Ghazali Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Terengganu
Norafzan Awang University College Bestari, Terengganu
Zahri Hamat Universiti Muhammadiyyah Malaysia, Perlis

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.33102/uij.692

Keywords:

Zakat, Asnaf Entrepreneurship, Maqasid al-Shariah, Spiritual Capital, Resource-Based View

Abstract

This study aims to examine the persistent sustainability challenges faced by zakat-funded Aṣnāf entrepreneurship programs and to propose a comprehensive Islamic framework grounded in financial, human, and spiritual capital. Utilizing a qualitative documentary analysis of 19 peer-reviewed empirical studies conducted in Malaysia, the research applies thematic coding informed by the Maqāṣid al-Sharīʿah while integrating perspectives from the Resource-Based View and Social Capital Theory. The findings reveal that the failure of many zakat-funded ventures stems from a predominant focus on short-term financial aid, limited entrepreneurial competencies, and a disregard for spiritual motivation. The proposed model underscores the importance of synergy across all three capital domains to achieve sustainable and ethically resilient micro-enterprises. Practically, the study advocates for zakat institutions to shift from transactional disbursement to development-oriented strategies, emphasizing mentorship, governance reforms, and spiritual integration. Importantly, the model also serves as a diagnostic tool for policymakers and practitioners seeking to implement holistic and maqasid-aligned entrepreneurship programs. This study extends the integration of financial, human, and spiritual capital within an Islamic entrepreneurship framework, offering a faith-based perspective that connects Islamic values with contemporary Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

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