ISLAM AND THE ENVIRONMENT

 

Earth and its rare existence in the vast universe is a miracle from Allah. It is a sign of His infinite power and wisdom. The fact that humans inhabit the earth carries profound meaning—it is both a blessing and a responsibility from Allah. In this article, I will explore the relationship between Muslims and the environment, highlighting what Islam teaches about caring for Allah’s creation.      

Allah has created the universe, and He is the one who sustains life. A balance prevails in this creation. Allah has created the universe in perfect harmony and order. The Qur’an frequently draws our attention to the intricate balance in creation. Allah says:

“Indeed, We created everything in proportion and measure.” [Qur'an, 54:49]

And the heaven He raised and imposed the balance. That you do not transgress within the balance…′ [The Noble Qur’an, 55:1-8]

This balance, or mizan, governs the natural world, from the rotation of the planets to the delicate ecosystems on Earth. Every element of creation, from the rivers and mountains to the animals and plants, plays a role in maintaining this balance. The responsibility to preserve this equilibrium falls upon humanity, who has been entrusted as stewards (khalifah) of the earth.

Our responsibility as Muslims is to protect what Allah has entrusted to us. The earth, with all its resources, is a divine trust (amanah) given to humanity. It is not ours to exploit recklessly but to care for and preserve for future generations. Allah has blessed us with a home that sustains life, providing everything we need to survive and thrive. However, this blessing comes with the responsibility to ensure that the balance He has created is maintained. Allah reminds us again and again in the Qur’an that we must not disrupt the balance in the earth.

“and He has raised up the heaven and has set a balance that you may not transgress in the balance, (55:9) but weigh things equitably and skimp not in the balance.” [Qur’an 55:8-9]

“Corruption has spread on land and sea as a result of what people’s hands have done, so that Allah may cause them to taste ˹the consequences of˺ some of their deeds and perhaps they might return ˹to the Right Path˺.” [Qur’an 30:41]

“And when they leave ˹you˺, they strive throughout the land to spread mischief in it and destroy crops and cattle. Allah does not like mischief.” [Qur’an 2:205]

There are a few simple yet powerful acts that we must incorporate into our lives as custodians of the world. These acts not only reflect our responsibility but also embody the principles of Islam.

1. Cleanliness

Cleanliness is an integral part of faith in Islam. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

“Cleanliness is half of faith.” (Sahih Muslim)

This teaching emphasizes the importance of maintaining cleanliness in all aspects of life, including our surroundings. Keeping our homes, neighborhoods, and public spaces clean ensures a healthy environment for everyone. It also prevents harm to wildlife and ecosystems.

Simple actions such as disposing of waste responsibly, avoiding littering, and promoting recycling can have a significant impact. Cleanliness not only reflects personal discipline but also aligns with the broader Islamic principle of maintaining balance and purity in Allah’s creation.

2. Stopping Wastefulness

Islam strongly discourages wastefulness, whether in food, water, or other resources. Allah says:

“Indeed, the wasteful are brothers of the devils, and ever has Satan been to his Lord ungrateful.” [Qur'an, 17:27]

As custodians of the earth, we must adopt a mindful approach to consumption. This includes using water sparingly, avoiding excessive energy consumption, and only taking what we need. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) even advised moderation in the use of water during ablution, saying:

“Do not waste water, even if you perform ablution on the banks of a flowing river.” [Ibn Majah]

This highlights the importance of valuing resources, no matter how abundant they may seem. By reducing waste, we contribute to the preservation of the earth’s resources and reduce the strain on the environment.

3. Actively Taking Care of the World to Help It Thrive

Caring for the environment is a proactive duty. It is not enough to avoid harm; we must also take positive steps to nurture and restore the natural world. Planting trees, conserving wildlife, and protecting natural habitats are acts of worship and gratitude to Allah.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

“Whoever plants a tree and diligently looks after it until it matures, and bears fruit is rewarded.” [Musnad Ahmad]

This demonstrates the reward for those who contribute to the flourishing of the earth. Simple acts like planting greenery, supporting environmental initiatives, and educating others about sustainable practices can create a ripple effect, benefiting the planet and all its inhabitants.

In conclusion, the earth is a sacred trust from Allah, and we, as its custodians, bear the responsibility to protect and preserve it. Islam teaches us that maintaining cleanliness, avoiding wastefulness, and actively nurturing the environment are essential acts of faith. By upholding these principles, we honor the balance Allah has created and demonstrate gratitude for His blessings. Our stewardship is not only a duty but also an opportunity to contribute positively to the world, ensuring it thrives for future generations. Through these simple yet impactful actions, we fulfill our role as stewards of Allah’s creation and reflect the values of compassion, responsibility, and harmony that Islam embodies.