Ecology and Islam: rediscovering a forgotten wisdom
The ecological crisis continues to remind us of the urgency of a profound change in our lifestyles. But beyond policies and technological innovations, another path opens up, more interior: that of spirituality. And in this area, Islam has a lot to say. Long before the word “ecology” existed, the Koran already laid the foundations for a harmonious relationship between man and nature. The human being is described not as an owner, but as a guardian: “He is the One who established you as stewards on Earth” (Surah 6, verse 165). This idea of khilafah — man’s responsibility towards creation — expresses an ethic of respect and moderation, far from the relationship of domination which marks industrial modernity.
A religion of balance
Islam calls for moderation. “Eat and drink, but do not indulge in excess” (Surah 7, verse 31), says the Koran again. This call for sobriety is not limited to food: it extends to consumption, production, and our relationship with the earth. Excess, waste and material overbidding are denounced as forms of disorder – fassad — which disrupt the balance of the world, the mîzân. The Prophet Muhammad (SWS) set an example of this in his daily life: he forbade the waste of water, even for ablutions, and encouraged the planting of trees. A hadith reports: “If the end of the world came and you had a plant in your hand, plant it anyway. » These gestures, both simple and symbolic, reflect a spirituality of care and responsibility.
Initiatives that reconcile faith and ecology
In recent years, a growing number of Muslims are rediscovering this ecological dimension of their faith. “Green” mosques are emerging across the world, with solar panels, shared gardens and awareness programs. Campaigns invite an “ethical iftar”, more sober and local, during Ramadan. Still others get involved in environmental associations, relying on the values of justice and solidarity at the heart of the Koranic message. For many, this return to basics is not only ecological: it is spiritual. Protecting nature also means rediscovering a right relationship with the Creator. “The Earth is a mosque”, said the Prophet — in other words, a sacred place where every gesture counts.
In a world where the ecological crisis is also a crisis of meaning, Islam can offer another way of thinking about our relationship with life: not in terms of domination, but of service. It is not a moralistic discourse, but a vision of the world where man is called to live in harmony, not as conquerors. Giving this forgotten wisdom its place again is perhaps helping to re-enchant our way of inhabiting the Earth — humbly, lucidly, and with gratitude.
