In a time of ecological crisis, the term Islamic environmentalism is gaining increasing significance. This philosophy emphasizes that Muslims have been assigned the role of Khalifah —steward or vicegerent—to protect and maintain the balance of the earth.
1. Khalīfah: The Sacred Mandate of Stewardship
According to the Qur'an, Allah (SWT) has appointed humanity as Khaleefah (Khalifah) on earth (2:30, 6:165). This does not simply mean that we rule over the earth, but that we carefully manage it. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“The world is green and beautiful, and Allah (SWT) will appoint you as its stewards to see how you act…” ( Sahih Muslim 2742, Book 49, Hadith 12)
This mandate places ecological responsibility high in Islamic ethics.
2. Central to eco-Islam: Tawḥīd and Mīzān
Two important principles:
- Tawḥīd (Belief in the Oneness of Allah (SWT)): points to the inherent connectedness between humanity and creation.
- Mīzān (Cosmic Balance): Allah (SWT) created the world in a harmonious balance, and humans are not allowed to disturb it.
3. Qur'an and Hadith: Call to Wise Use and Preservation
- The Qur'an warns against waste: “Eat and drink, but do not waste.”
- Speaking hadiths:
- “If a Muslim plants a tree… it is counted as sadaqah” (Bukhari).
- “Do not use too much water, even when performing wudu at a flowing spring” (Ibn Majah).
In this way, Islam looks not only at belief but also at practical behavior and responsibility .
4. Peer Advocates: Islamic Declaration & Large-Scale Movement
In 2015, more than 60 Islamic leaders endorsed the Islamic Declaration on Global Climate Change , calling for action on deforestation, emissions, and biodiversity loss.
Thinker Seyyed Hossein Nasr , a pioneer of the movement, emphasizes a sacred sense of nature that goes deeper than modern ecology .
5. Local examples: Hima zones and Misali Island
The age-old concept of ḥimā (protected zones for forests and water) was applied during the time of the Prophet (peace be upon him) to regulate ecological management.
In Zanzibar, imams inspired fishing communities to protect their marine habitat, citing the Qur'an: “Allah does not love wasteful people.”
6. Practical Guide: How to Live Sustainable as a Khalifah
A. Reduce waste
Water and energy efficient living, even in small rituals such as wudu.
B. Plant and protect flora
Expanding existing tree and garden areas—an act of sadaqah.
C. Create sacred zones or gardens
Think of vegetable gardens or mosque green spaces—modern interpretations of ḥimā .
D. Engage your community
Encourage eco-activities through mosques and teach environmental awareness in sermons and classes.
E. Join faith-based initiatives
Join organizations like IFEES or support climate actions that align with Islamic values.
✨ Conclusion: sustainable living as a shared mission
Islamic environmental ethics is not merely moralistic, but a practical plan for daily living . We are entrusted by Allah (SWT) as stewards, masters of our words and deeds, and inspired by nature. By combining ecological awareness and action with theological roots—such as Tawhid, Mizaan, and Khaleefah—Muslims make a powerful contribution to a sustainable future.