The first waqf was in the form a mosque, which was built by the holy Prophet (SAW) after his hijrah (migration) from Mecca to Madinah. This mosque, known as Masjid Quba’, was completed by the companions of Rasulu Llah (SAW) and was renovated by a number of Khalifa (successors of the holy Prophet). Today, Masjid Quba’ is the second largest mosque in the city of Madinah after the Prophet’s mosque.
Another waqf established during the time of the Prophet (SAW) were the seven orchards given by one of the companions, Mukhairiq (RA). Mukhairiq (RA) left his estate to endow a waqf.
One of the first awqaf traceable to the early Islamic period was in the purchase of the famous well of Madinah (Bi’r Romah). This acquisition occurred after Uthman (RA) offered to purchase the well for the purpose of quenching the public’s thirst.
There are many other examples of awqaf during the early Islamic period. One of such was in Asma’ bint Abu Bakr donating her house as a waqf.