In the Holy Quran, there are many verses which emphasizes the importance of sustainable development, and the responsibility of human beings towards the environment. The mankind has the right to use the environment for getting the essential benefits like water, land, air, minerals etc. But there is no right given to man to damage the environment.
Awareness about Sustainable Development
The public awareness about sustainable development is increasing day-by-day. The people feel the necessity to include religious influence in maintaining the environment. The Holy Quran play a significant role in our lives to fulfill our responsibility as the Khalifah of Allah (viceregent of Allah).
Sustainable development is not a new concept for Muslims. In the Quran, we can find more than 500 verses in which Allah guides us on matters related to the environmental sustainability.
Our Responsibilities
According to Islam, human being is the caretaker or guardian of this environment. The Islamic perspective on sustainable development highlights that our stronger connection to faith can contribute to environmental sustainability. The Quran is a guiding source for Muslims. The Quran repeatedly stresses the significance of environmental conservation, and emphasizes the relationship of the Nature with human life.
Thus, as Muslims, it is our responsibility to utilize the earth responsibly. We should maintain and preserve it honestly. The Quran teaches us to use the precious natural resources judiciously, considerately and moderately. It is very important to pass the environment to future generations in its best form. We have to make use of our natural environment in such a way that it is not degraded and polluted for the coming generations.
Allah says in the Quran:
“It is He who has appointed you vicegerent on the earth…” Quran 6:165
Every person can share earth’s resources. Allah has also set a scale on all the resources. Our negative actions will produce the side-effects and cause ecological imbalance on Earth.
The Quran tells us
“The servants of the Lord of Mercy are those who walk gently upon the earth…” Quran 25:63
Land Reclamation in Quran
According to the Holy Quran, Allah rewards a person who brings a dead land to life. Land reclamation is highly encouraged in Islam. Preserving the land and its sustainable use is very important because not only human beings but also animals, birds, and other creatures benefits from it. Allah regards this act as a charity in Islam. Infact, Allah says that He offers rewards for planting every sapling.
Protection of Nature
Nature protection is emphasized in our religion. Allah says that all the things that He created on the earth have certain purposes. We should appreciate the wildlife and contribute to the protection of nature.
Water Rights
In the Holy Quran, Allah mentions the word ‘water’ 66 times. Water is very important for us because it has life-giving properties. There is a Quranic verse about water:
“And Allah sends down rain from the skies, and gives therewith life to the earth after its death: verily in this is a Sign for those who listen”…. Quran 16:65
Monopolization of water is not allowed in Islam. Sustainability of water utilization is of great importance. Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) teaches us to use the water properly without wasting it. Quran not only encourages the protection of water but also forbids polluting it.
Environmental Protection
We can only benefit from the environment if we contribute to its conservation and protection. People are ignorant in this regard so this ignorance has resulted in the environmental degradation. There is a need to raise awareness among the people. Muslims should realize that it is their religious duty to protect the environment. Allah, the Almighty, does not allow anyone to cause damage to the earth.
Conclusion
The protection of the natural environment is a religious duty for all the Muslims. We, as Muslims, believe in the sustainable development of our communities, cities and countries. The Muslim community should take the lead in protecting the Nature. It is our duty to raise awareness about environmental conservation and sustainability among Muslims on the basis of Quranic teachings and Hadith.
