A Research and Explanation on the Position Of Imam Ali's Endowments

Waqf (meaning 'endowment') refers to "preserving the property itself and using its benefits for fulfilling the needs of others". This humanitarian task has been present in human societies in various forms since long ago. With the advent of Islam, however, it found its place among Muslims with the Prophet's verbal or practical guidance. By studying the historical sources and numerous traditional books, we will find out the special status of the good tradition of endowment in the Prophet's way of life as well as his companions and the infallible Imams, especially Imam Ali.Imam Ali, during his beatific lifetime, especially during 25 years of his silence and retirement, was busy digging wells, planting palm trees, creating numerous pastures and farms, which then he would appropriate as endowments for needy persons. Based on existing documents, his endowments, in general, included more than 100 (or 170) wells in a region called Yanbu', and numerous other wells and springs in different regions, especially in Medina and the surroundings, numerous farms and palm trees, houses, mosques and the like. The present article is seeking to answer three key questions: a) what was the number of Imam Ali's endowments? b) What did Imam Ali's endowments include? c) Why did he endow them?