Environmental Ethics from the Perspective of Islamic Thought with a View to the Verses of the Holy Quran
Akhlāq-i zīstī i.e., Bioethics Journal,
Vol. 14 No. 39 (1403),
28 Tir 2024
,
Page 1-14
https://doi.org/10.22037/bioeth.v14i39.45609
Abstract
Background and Aim: One of the main and critical issues in today's world is the issue of the environment. In this regard, one of the most important questions that must be addressed is how we ethically engage with the environment. The aim of this article is to examine the Islamic worldview, specifically the Quran, concerning nature and the environment, and subsequently to propose a behavioral model aligned with this worldview.
Methods: This article has been conducted using a qualitative approach and an analytical-inferential method, utilizing a library-based research technique.
Results: Based on the rulings and examples presented in the Holy Quran regarding the earth, the sky, and everything within them, a behavioral model consisting of the following six elements can be extracted: 1. Attention to justice and reform 2. Reliance on religious teachings 3. Serious preservation of the environment and nature 4. The value of work and the importance of the economy 5. Maximum production and minimal consumption 6. Education.
Conclusion: It was shown that the Holy Quran, on the one hand, considers all beings and creatures of the world valuable, and on the other hand, assigns rights and moral responsibility exclusively to humans. It neither aligns with the anthropocentric theory, which values only humans while deeming other creatures worthless, nor with the cosmocentric theory, which attributes rights and moral responsibility to all beings. If humans are regarded as the noblest of creations, they are also considered responsible for all other creatures. It was demonstrated that, according to the Islamic worldview, all beings in the universe are created with purpose and wisdom, and humans are obligated to honor their sanctity. Accordingly, specific rulings have been established in this regard, including: 1. developing the earth; 2. prohibition of corruption on earth; 3. appropriate and moderate utilization of natural blessings; 4. reflection and contemplation on divine signs.
- Environmental ethics
- Islam
- Quran
- Behavioral model
How to Cite
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