Earth Vigil: Layers of Light
Faith in Place’s event, April 27, 2023 at 6 PM
Reinforcing the message shared by God through His Prophets over time, Islam places a great emphasis on the earth, the environment and its preservation, in the Quran revealed through the Angel Gabriel to the Prophet Mohammed (Peace be upon him).
Muslims believe that the environment is a gift from God and that they are responsible for taking care of it. This responsibility is reflected in the teachings of the Quran, the Hadith (the sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad-Peace be upon him), and the example set by the Prophet himself.
One of the key concepts in Islam that relates to the environment is the idea of “stewardship” or “trusteeship” (khilafah in Arabic). Muslims believe that they are not owners of the earth, but rather its custodians, and that they are accountable to God for how they treat the environment. The Quran says,
“It is He who has made you vicegerents (khulafa’) of the earth.”
(Quran 6:165)
In Islam, there are a number of practices and teachings that emphasize the importance of preserving the environment. For example, Muslims are encouraged to use resources responsibly and not to waste them. The Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) said,
“The earth is green and beautiful, and Allah has appointed you his stewards over it.”
(Hadith)
Islam also prohibits the destruction of natural resources and wildlife, and encourages the planting of trees and the preservation of forests. The Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) said,
“Whoever plants a tree and it bears fruit, whoever cultivates land and makes use of it, or whoever builds a house and makes use of it, Allah will reward them.”
(Hadith)
In addition, Islam teaches that all creatures, including animals and plants, have rights that must be respected. Muslims are encouraged to show kindness and compassion to all living beings, and to avoid actions that harm them.
Many Muslim scholars and organizations have also been at the forefront of promoting environmental awareness and sustainability, and have launched several initiatives to address environmental challenges. The Chicago Muslims Green Team is an example, along with several Islamic environmental organizations that focus on promoting sustainable development, conservation, and environmental justice.
Overall, Islam views the environment as a sacred trust and calls on Muslims to be responsible stewards of the earth.
Mohammed Faheem
President – Chicago Muslims Green Team
http://www.Chicagomuslimsgreenteam.org