Resolution No.(197)(6/2014) by the Board of Iftaa`, Research and Islamic Studies:
"Economic Security is an Objectives of Sharia that can be Achieved through Justice and Reform"
Date: 23/Rabi` Al-thani/1435 AH, corresponding to 23/2/2014.
All perfect praise is due to Allah, The Lord of The Worlds; and may His peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Mohammad and upon all his family and companions:
On the above given date, the Board reviewed the question sent by one of the MPs concerning the negative effects of tax evasion and theft of public funds on the security of the national economy. He requested clarifying the ruling of Sharia on tax evasion?
After researching and deliberating, the Board decided what follows:
The security of the national economy as well as the protection of public funds are a trust that should be restored by every citizen, as Enjoined by Almighty Allah in the following verse whereas, He Says (what means): "Verily, God commands you to restore trusts. And when you judge between people, that you judge with justice. Excellent is the admonition God gives you. God is ever Hearer, Seer." {An`nisa`/58}. Moreover, it is a collective responsibility as indicated by the Hadith of the Prophet (PBUH) who said: "All of you are guardians and are responsible for your subjects. The ruler is a guardian of his subjects, the man is a guardian of his family, the woman is a guardian and is responsible for her husband's house and his offspring; and so all of you are guardians and are responsible for your subjects." {Agreed upon}.
The first guardian is the ruler and those in charge of running people`s livelihoods and affairs. It is their duty to act as deputies of the people in fulfilling the injunctions of Allah through the proper management of resources, realizing justice of opportunity and distribution, cutting down expenses, fighting corruption, adherence to preserving the principles of Sharia in the national economy, and allowing the people to take an actual part in that process. This task can be realized through MPs who believe in a true mission that celebrates the values of Islam and observes the interests of the people. They should also monitor the financial performance of the executive authority in order to help end tax evasion and make the tax payer enjoy the satisfaction of supporting his nation and country.
Moreover, the wealthy shoulder a similar responsibility towards public funds and tax because they are key for the development of the economy. Therefore, it is impermissible that a member of this class abstains from paying taxes because others don`t; rather, he should adhere to the injunctions of Allah, Who Says (What means): "O you who believe, fear God and be with those who are truthful." {At-Tawbah/119}.
The Iftaa` Board recommends promulgating a law pertaining to giving Zakah and collecting that which is due to the poor from the rich, because it has a great effect in achieving social solidarity. And Allah Knows Best.
Chairman of the Iftaa` Board, The Mufti General of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, His Grace Sheikh Abdulkareem Al-Khasawneh.
Vice-Chairman of the Iftaa` Board, Prof. Ahmad Hilayel
Prof. Hayel Abdulhafeez/ Member
Dr. Yahia Al-Botoosh/ Member
His Eminence, Sheikh Sa`ied Hijjawi/ Member
Prof. Mohammad Al-Qudat/ Member
Prof. Abduln`nassir Abu Al Bass`al/ Member
Dr. Mohammad Al-Khalayleh/ Member
Dr. Mohammad Al-Zou`bi/ Member
Dr.Wasif Al-Bak`kri/ Member
Dr. Mohammad Khair Al-eesa/Member
