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Episode 56: Islamic Principles #20: The Environment
We cannot be who we are or do the things we do except through and by the natural world around us. The Quran and Hadith literature are replete with references to the animated nature of the environment, to the duty we owe the environment, and to the obligation to keep its balance. The environment is one of the meta principles of Islam, and since the natural world around us is in crises, it is ever more important that we learn what it means from our faith point of view.
Episode Notes
Quran Mentioned
The seven heavens and the earth and all that is therein praise Him, and there is not a thing but invokes His praise; but you understand not their praise. Lo! He is ever Clement, Forgiving. (17:44)
The stars and the trees adore. (55:6)
I created the jinn and humankind only that they might worship Me. (51:56)
And He has made of service for you whatsoever is in the heavens and whatsoever is in the earth; it is all from Him. Lo! herein verily are portents for a people who reflect. (45:13)
He brought you forth from the earth and has asked you to develop it. (11:61)
And of mankind there are those whose conversation on the life of this world pleases you, and he calls Allah to witness as to that which is in his heart; yet he is the most rigid of opponents. And when he turns away his effort in the land is to make mischief therein and to destroy the crops and the cattle; and Allah lovs not mischief. (2:204-205)
Hadith Mentioned
Anybody who plants and animals eat you are rewarded, (Ahmad) Story of Gabriel and dog, (Bukhari)
Dogs are nations too, (Abu Dawud & Tirmidhi)
Women and cat, (Bukhari)
Man who gave a dog water, (Bukhari and Muslim)
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What is Usuli Islam?
In The Clock of the Long Now, Stewart Brand argues that religion is one of the most durable institutions of civilization that helps ground us all in timeless values. In his concept of the forces of innovation (rapidly changing) and durability (slow changing) of civilization, religion would definitely be amongst the more slow adapting forces.
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