by Prof. Ibrahim Özdemir
As the world grapples with escalating environmental challenges, the Islamic community finds itself at a pivotal juncture. Despite the profound guidance within the Qur’an regarding the natural world, environmental awareness and proactive engagement remain alarmingly low in many Muslim communities. This article is a clarion call to awaken the inherent responsibilities embedded in our faith and to embrace sustainability through the lens of Al-Mizan—a sacred covenant with the Earth.
Al-Mizan, meaning balance, is deeply rooted in the Qur’anic worldview. It represents Allah’s divine order and harmony, where every element of the universe is created with purpose and equilibrium. This principle transcends environmental conservation, encompassing economic stability, social equity, and justice. The Qur’an repeatedly emphasizes that all creation is sustained by Allah, urging us to maintain this balance in every aspect of life. Al-Mizan serves as a powerful reminder that our actions, individually and collectively, have far-reaching impacts on the world around us. It calls for a holistic understanding of sustainability, deeply intertwined with spiritual and ethical dimensions.
The current environmental crisis—characterized by pollution, climate change, and resource depletion—poses a significant threat to global stability. Yet, in many Muslim-majority countries, these issues are often overshadowed by pressing political and economic concerns. This neglect starkly contradicts Islam’s Maqasid (objectives), which emphasizes the well-being of all creation. With its rich guidance on the beauty and wisdom of nature, the Qur’an calls upon Muslims to act as stewards of the Earth. This stewardship, or Amanah, is a sacred trust requiring us to protect and preserve the environment for future generations. It is not merely an act of personal piety but a collective duty demanding urgent and sustained action.
The Al-Mizan project, developed over five years by a dedicated group of Muslim environmentalists, seeks to address these challenges by engaging Islamic scholars and institutions in the global fight against climate change. Launched in collaboration with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), this initiative aspires to inspire young Muslims to embrace environmental stewardship, recognizing the moral and ethical dimensions of their actions. It is a comprehensive endeavor that unites diverse voices from across the Islamic world, fostering a unified response to environmental issues. By drawing on the rich ethical traditions of Islam, the Al-Mizan project aims to create a sustainable future that honors the divine balance of creation.
Climate change exacerbates resource scarcity and forced migration, with profound social and political stability implications. Addressing these challenges requires systemic solutions integrating Islamic ethical principles with contemporary environmental science. Religion and culture are crucial in shaping attitudes toward the environment, and religious teachings can significantly influence sustainable practices. By embracing the principles of Al-Mizan, Muslims have the potential to lead the way in promoting environmental awareness and action, setting a powerful example for others to follow. This is a call to return to the core values of Islam—values that emphasize compassion, justice, and respect for all living beings.
Islamic ethics, as guided by the Qur’an and the Prophet Muhammad’s example, emphasize the interconnectedness of all life forms. Muslims are called to adopt a holistic perspective on sustainability, considering the broader implications of their actions on the environment. This necessitates a re-evaluation of our ethical responsibilities, particularly concerning environmental stewardship. It calls to move beyond rhetoric to take concrete steps toward a more sustainable future. By aligning our actions with the teachings of Islam, we can create a world that reflects the divine balance and harmony inherent in creation.
The butterfly effect, a concept illustrating the interconnectedness of all things, demonstrates that small changes in one place can lead to significant, unforeseen consequences elsewhere. This concept is particularly relevant in addressing today’s environmental crises, where local actions often have global repercussions. It highlights the cosmic balance created by Allah and encourages us to be mindful of our actions and their impact on the environment. By recognizing the interconnectedness of all life, we can develop a deeper appreciation for the natural world and our place within it, inspiring us to take meaningful action to protect the environment and promote sustainability in all aspects of life.
The Al-Mizan project stands as a wake-up call for Muslims to embrace their role as stewards of the Earth. It is a global initiative that seeks to engage Islamic scholars and institutions in developing and adopting sustainable practices. This document is not only a reflection of Islamic teachings but also a practical guide for addressing modern environmental challenges. By fostering a sense of collective responsibility, the Al-Mizan project aspires to create a movement that transcends borders and unites Muslims in pursuing a sustainable future. It is a call to action that resonates with the core values of Islam, inspiring us to work together to protect the Earth and all its inhabitants.
As Muslims, we bear a moral responsibility to care for the environment, recognizing it as a trust (amānah) bestowed upon us by Allah. This responsibility extends beyond addressing our immediate needs to considering the well-being of future generations. By embracing the principles of Al-Mizan, we can work towards a sustainable future that honors the divine balance and harmony of creation. This journey requires commitment, collaboration, and a willingness to change. Taking action today can ensure a legacy of balance and harmony for future generations.
The path toward sustainability is not only an environmental imperative but also a spiritul one. It calls us to reflect on our ethical responsibilities and act according to Islam’s teachings. Let us heed this call and work together to protect the Earth and all its inhabitants, ensuring a legacy of balance and harmony for future generations. By embracing the principles of Al-Mizan, we can create a world that reflects the divine order and harmony of creation—a world that is just, equitable, and sustainable for all.
Prof. Ibrahim Özdemir
Clark University, Worcester, MA