If a Muslim plants a tree or sows seeds, and then a bird, or a person or an animal eats from it

The Hadith and the Environment

Hadiths or the traditions of Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) also deal extensively with various aspects of environment including resource conservation, land reclamation and environmental hygiene. Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) discouraged overconsumption, luxury and lavishness and encouraged moderation in all walks of life.

The most popular Hadith on environment states “The earth is green and beautiful and Allah has appointed you his stewards over it” which reiterates Quran teaching that human beings have been given the responsibility of guardianship over the natural environment.

The Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) clearly forbade destruction of trees and crops even during war times as long as their existence remains advantageous to the enemy.  The Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) gave high degree of importance towards sustainable cultivation of land,  humane treatment of animals, preservation of natural resources and protection of wildlife. Some of the sayings of Prophet bless and Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) on environmental sustainability are:

“The world is beautiful and verdant, and verily God, be He exalted, has made you His stewards in it, and He sees how you acquit yourselves.” (Muslim)

“If a Muslim plants a tree or sows seeds, and then a bird, or a person or an animal eats from it, it is regarded as a charitable gift (sadaqah) for him.” (Bukhari)