This study explores homelessness, a widespread social issue in many global contexts, through the lens of charity, a core tenet of Turkish-Islamic culture. Specifically, it examines the role of mosques in addressing homelessness, given their significant presence in social life. Traditionally, state institutions and NGOs have led efforts to prevent and address social problems. However, mosques have historically played a central role in the everyday lives of Muslims, not only as places of worship but also as community centres addressing social challenges. In modern times, mosques are often viewed mainly as spaces for religious rituals, and their broader social functions have received less attention. 

Homelessness, often defined simply as a lack of shelter, is a far more complex issue. It is typically framed as a problem of poverty and housing shortage, but this view overlooks its deeper social, psychological, and economic dimensions. Homelessness reflects broader societal inequalities, including social exclusion, which deprives individuals of not only a home but also the social and psychological security that comes with it. As the number of homeless individuals grows globally and sociological perspectives on homelessness continue to evolve, there is a need for a more nuanced understanding of its multi-faceted nature.

Social exclusion, a key sociological concept, helps frame homelessness in a broader context. It refers to processes that marginalise individuals or groups from social, economic, political, and cultural participation. This marginalisation manifests through economic deprivation, discrimination, and limited access to resources and opportunities. In the case of homelessness, social exclusion is both a cause and a consequence. People who are often marginalized experience homelessness due to their exclusion from housing, employment, and social services. Once on the streets, this exclusion deepens, further isolating homeless individuals from society and entrenching them in poverty. Homelessness is not only the absence of a home but also the absence of social support and a sense of belonging, which is vital to well-being.

The relationship between social exclusion and homelessness creates a vicious cycle. Homelessness further isolates individuals, cutting them off from essential services, jobs, and social networks. This marginalisation increases their vulnerability, leading to deeper poverty and social isolation. From a sociological perspective, addressing homelessness requires more than just providing shelter; it involves reintegrating individuals into society, restoring their dignity, and reconnecting them with supportive networks and institutions. Mosques, with their strong tradition of charity (hayırseverlik) in Turkish-Islamic culture, play a critical role in this reintegration process.

Charity has been central to the Turkish-Islamic culture, deeply embedded in religious teachings and social practises. The Quran and Hadith emphasise the moral obligation to assist those in need, reflecting a wider ethic of communal responsibility. Acts of charity are not seen as mere individual generosity but as religious duties that maintain social cohesion. Historically, mosques have been at the centre of these charitable activities. Beyond their religious functions, mosques also provide social services, education, and community welfare. The institution of waqf (endowment) historically funded many charitable initiatives, including housing and services for the homeless.

Despite this history, the modern role of mosques in addressing homelessness has been a subject of debate. Some critics argue that mosques today are too focused on religious rituals and less engaged in broader social functions. However, there are notable examples of mosques that continue to address homelessness. This study focuses on four mosques in Istanbul —Kadıköy, Beyoğlu, Fatih, and Eyüpsultan (Ayvansaray)— that have taken concrete steps to support homeless individuals. Through interviews with the imams of these mosques, this research examines their motivations, perspectives on homelessness, and the solutions they propose.

The study’s findings reveal that these mosques hold significant potential in addressing homelessness, particularly through their close ties to the community. The imams interviewed cited religious teachings, especially the concept of seeking “Allah’s approval,” as their primary motivation for helping the homeless. This religious motivation influences both their charitable activities and their understanding of the root causes of homelessness. The imams emphasised that homelessness is not only an economic issue but also a moral and social one that requires a comprehensive solution that addresses both material needs and social reintegration.

The study also highlights the protective role that mosques play in safeguarding homeless individuals from the dangers of street life. Homelessness exposes individuals to various physical, emotional, and psychological risks, including violence, exploitation, and mental health challenges. The imams described how mosques serve as safe spaces for the homeless, offering not just shelter but also a sense of community and belonging. In this way, mosques function as spaces of social inclusion, countering the forces of exclusion that often accompany homelessness. This reintegrative role is crucial, as it helps meet the immediate needs of the homeless while supporting their long-term reintegration into society.

In addition, the study underscores the role of the Directorate of Religious Affairs (Diyanet) in supporting mosque-based initiatives to address homelessness. The Diyanet, as the official religious authority in Turkey, plays a crucial role in coordinating and backing charitable activities in mosques. The imams interviewed noted that the Diyanet provides institutional support and guidance, helping ensure that mosque-based homelessness initiatives are organised and sustainable. This institutional support is essential for the long-term success of such efforts, allowing mosques to expand their impact and reach.

In conclusion, this study highlights the sociological importance of mosques in addressing homelessness. While state institutions and NGOs are vital in combating homelessness, mosques offer a unique form of social capital that can complement these efforts. The trust that imams hold within their communities, along with the religious imperative to serve those in need, positions mosques as key actors in addressing homelessness. By using this social capital and leveraging the networks within mosque communities, these initiatives can contribute to more sustainable and effective solutions to homelessness. 

Recognising the social trust that imams hold in contemporary Turkey can also help address other social problems. Mosques, as community-centred institutions with a strong tradition of charity, can be revitalised to tackle pressing issues such as homelessness. By harnessing this potential, the Turkish society can foster a more inclusive and supportive approach to homelessness, rooted in the principles of charity, social inclusion, and communal responsibility.