Maintaining the Balance Set by Allah
"And the earth, He has assigned it to all living creatures”
(Surah 55:10)
(Surah 55:10)
As this verse points out, God created the earth for all living creatures. The Qur’an also states that all living beings praise God in different ways and in different languages. The Qur’an describes humanity as the stewards (khalifah) of God on earth. Humans are thus entrusted with maintaining order and balance (Mizan) on Earth. However, Muslims are reminded by the Qur’an and the Sunnah to treat animals with respect and compassion.
Islamic tradition even provides us with examples of nature conservation: The Prophet Muhammed (PBUH) himself established sanctuaries around Mecca and Medina, where no trees were allowed to be cut down and hunting was forbidden. He granted rights to all living creatures and called for the protection of water. Maintaining the balance established by Allah is so important that one should take care of the terrestrial paradise before entering the other-worldly one. According to Imam Ahmad:
Islamic tradition even provides us with examples of nature conservation: The Prophet Muhammed (PBUH) himself established sanctuaries around Mecca and Medina, where no trees were allowed to be cut down and hunting was forbidden. He granted rights to all living creatures and called for the protection of water. Maintaining the balance established by Allah is so important that one should take care of the terrestrial paradise before entering the other-worldly one. According to Imam Ahmad:
“Even on the final day of judgment, whoever has a sprout in one’s hand should plant it.”
