ISLAM AND THE ENVIRONMENT

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INTRODUCTION

In Islam there is an idea of humans being stewards of the Earth. This means that we have a responsibility for respecting the planet, taking care of it and not destroying it.

This is key in our time when the environmental crisis is one of the greatest threats to human existence. The leaders of our world are presiding over the greatest destruction of biological life on the planet seen in human history. It's time for a dramatic change in direction. So we applaud anyone taking positive steps to live on the planet in a more respectful manner.

We are glad to see that the government of Saudi Arabia is planning a new eco city. It shows that there is hope for people coming together.

QUOTES FROM THE QURAN

Mankind's Role in Taking Care of the Earth:

When your Lord told the angels, "I will place a steward on earth," they said, "Will you put someone there who will corrupt it and shed blood, while we glorify, praise, and sanctify You?" He said, "I know things you do not know." (2:30)

"He it is Who hath placed you as viceroys of the earth and hath exalted some of you in rank above others, that He may try you by (the test of) that which He hath given you. Lo! Thy Lord is swift in prosecution, and Lo! He verily is Forgiving, Merciful." (6:165)

Do Not Cause Corruption on Earth

“Do not cause corruption on the earth, after it has been set in order…” (7:56).

Do Not Be Wasteful

“O Children of Adam! Dress well whenever you are at worship. Eat and drink, but do not waste. Surely He does not like the wasteful” (7:31).

Animals Have their Own Communities

“And there is no animal on the earth nor bird that flies on its wings but that are communities like you. Nothing have We left out of the Book. Then to their Lord they will be gathered (6:38).

The Earth is Watching Us

Chapter 99 of the Quran discusses how the Earth will testify on the happenings of human beings.

Related Articles

Our Collection of Reports on Islam

How Islam can represent a model for environmental stewardship (UN Environment Program)

What does Islam say about climate change and climate action? (Aljazeera, 8-12-20)

Environmental Sustainability in Islam (Ecomena, 8-29-21)

Explained: Environmental Rights in Islam (Muslim Hands)

Earth’s Caretakers: Islam and the Environment (Al Maghrib, 7-28-21)

Islam and Ecology (Interfaith Center for Sustainable Development)

Books

Green Deen: What Islam Teaches about Protecting the Planet (Amazon)