Al amanah in al qur’an vs trust: a comparative study

Abstract

PurposeThis paper aims to find out the similarities and differences in meaning between the word “al amanah” and trust.Design/methodology/approachAs a qualitative research, a content analysis is used in three stages. First, to elaborate the exegesis of the related Qur’anic verses together with the background narration orasbab un-nuzulif any and the Prophetic hadith where the word amanah is and to analyse and conclude its meanings. Second, the word “trust” is analysed based on the discussions in the literature which will lead to its specific meanings. Third, the concluded meanings ofamanahand trust are to be compared to find out their similarities and differences.FindingsAmanahand trust have the similar meanings: safe, confident, ability to fulfil the expectation of the person who trust, having competence or expertise to perform duty, deliver commitments, keep promises, work with a full of responsibility, integrity or obedient to moral principles. Differences:Amanahis not only oriented to humanity and responsibility in human’s relations but also, more importantly, to GodAllahthe Almighty, obeying His commands to make it asibadahor acts of worshippingAllahthe Almighty formaslahahor welfare for society.Practical implicationsThe findings are considered important for companies or organisations. Before doing a commercial transaction or entering a contract or hiring an employee, they must study the quality of the counterparty whether they are capable to do the job as expected or not. In addition, the findings indicate that Islamic teachings concerningmuamalator Islamic rules for social dealings is universal in nature.Originality/valueBeing the first time to compare the word alamanahto trust, the findings point out the important elements to be evaluated when assigning a certain duty to an agent.