Week 2 : Islam and Sustainable Development

 

Sustainable development is not a new concept to Islam and Muslims as the Quran and hadith have mentioned the environmental matter and guidance on how to deal with it.

There are three categories related to Islam and sustainable development which are Islam and social, environmental, and economic sustainability and it is interrelated with each other.

    

Islam and Social Sustainability.

    Islam has taught Muslims to treat other people nicely and equally. People should not discriminate against others based on their background. Islam has also encouraged people to practice the concept of ukhuwwah (brotherhood). Violence or threats are strictly forbidden in Islam because it can encourage strife and division while Islam advocates peace. 

Islam and Environmental Sustainability.

    Islam has taught Muslims to take care and have a responsibility to our nature and environment as we are the Khalifah in this world. Every individual should not be greedy in using our natural resources excessively as we need to differentiate between needs and wants. We also should think about the impact on the environment. 

      I believe, that people regardless of religion should be aware that we as a human (Khalifah/guardian) need to conserve our nature and environment as it is part of the religious duty demanded by God. These are some sayings from Quran and hadith regarding our environment - 

“And do good as Allah has been good to you. And do not seek to cause corruption on the earth. Allah does not love the corrupters”, (Surat Al Qasas 28:77)

“Whoever plants a tree and diligently looks after it until it matures and bears fruit is rewarded,” (Musnad) (Prophet Muhammad  (PBUH)  sayings)

Islam and Economic Sustainability.

    Islamic economy is based on the concepts of justice and fairness. As a result, the Islamic economic system fits within the principles of sustainability. Islam provides effective socio-economic improvement through waqf (endowment) and zakat (alms). These Islamic economic principles are based on sharing in wealth distribution. 

By sacrificing part of one’s wealth and giving it in charity, the individual is guaranteeing protection for themselves from tragedy and misfortune.

The Prophet said: “Give charity without delay, for it stands in the way of calamity.” (Al-Tirmidhi)

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