Islam and Environment: Time for Green Jihad

Abstract

Ecological crisis is well known concern. We are well aware about the enormous consequences we may face due to the environmental degradation. Different debates have been held on this issue on various platforms on national and international level. This paper highlights the references from the Holy Qurʼān and the sayings of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) as well as his (PBUH) practices, to bring into light the teachings and instructions of Islam. Examples from the life of the companions of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) have also been included. The data is mostly sought from secondary sources. It is a descriptive study and content analysis of the secondary data such as books, articles, journals etc. was used. The findings of the paper are that the environmental imbalance is caused by us. Our Greed and lust for profit and luxuries have tilted the delicate balance of the ecology. But our faith also teaches us that this can surely be overcome by following the teachings of our religion. The conclusion made thus is that only by putting into practice the teachings of moderation and balance taught to us by our religion and practiced by our Holy Prophet (PBUH), will we be able to overcome the problem in no time.

Keywords

• environment
• islam
• qurʼān
• ḥadīth
• natural resources
• ecological balance