الإنفاق الاستهلاكي أهميته في الاقتصاد الإسلامي: دراسة تحليلية [Consumer Spending and Its Importance in the Islamic Economy: An Analytical Study]

Abstract

Consumer spending plays a very important role in economic development within the framework of the Islamic economy. The theory of consumer spending in Islam is a comprehensive and well-integrated model that aims to achieve the highest level of utility for both the individual consumer and society at large. It actively contributes to driving economic and social development. In Islamic economics, consumer spending is governed by a set of well-established Sharia-based regulations that encompass all aspects of consumption. These regulations are stable, flexible, comprehensive, and integrated—unlike those in conventional economic systems, which are often limited, weak, and lack consistency and comprehensiveness. Islamic consumer spending is based on a clear, realistic, and holistic vision that seeks to maximize utility for both the individual and society, while prioritizing benefits according to a hierarchy of needs rooted in the higher objectives (maqāṣid) of Islamic law. The consumer, in this framework, is both the starting point and the ultimate goal of production. Although consumer sovereignty is acknowledged, it remains within the boundaries of Islamic consumer spending theory. The researcher addressed this topic in three main sections, discussing the concept, importance, and principles of consumer spending; the role of Islamic consumption theory in economic development; and the priorities of Islamic development. The study employed both inductive and analytical methodologies. One of the key findings is that the Islamic theory of consumer spending is a powerful driver of disciplined economic and social development. It also plays a significant role in addressing major economic challenges such as recession and inflation, as well as in resource allocation and determining the overall level of savings.