693 - AL HASHAR (Ayat# 10)
Collective land ownership, a groundbreaking concept in Islamic history, originated with the second caliph, Hazrat Umar (RA). Following the conquest of Egypt, a significant debate arose regarding the distribution of acquired land and resources. While some companions favored dividing the land amongst the soldiers as spoils of war, Umar (RA) proposed a revolutionary approach: designating the land as *fay’* – a form of public property – rather than *ghanimat* (war booty). This meant the land would not be distributed for individual ownership but would remain a collective asset of the Muslim community (*ummah*). The revenue generated from this land, known as *kharaj*, would be utilized for the welfare of all Muslims, funding defense, and promoting the propagation of Islam. Umar (RA) based his decision on interpretations of Quranic verses, arguing they applied not only to the present generation but also to future Muslims. This established two main categories of land: *ushri* land (lands acquired through battle where the inhabitants converted to Islam without fighting) and *kharaji* land (lands acquired through conquest from those who did not convert). This innovative approach, a first in human history, ensured equitable resource distribution and sustainable governance.
