“WHAT DOES OUR LORD TEACH US THROUGH THE ENVIRONMENT?”
Honorable Muslims!
The universe is a blessing that Allah (swt) has created out of nothing and bestowed upon us. It is an entrustment in Allah’s (swt) possession and sovereignty, and He has assigned us with the responsibility to develop and improve it. It is a book of truth showing the existence and oneness of Allah (swt). Our Lord informs us of this fact in the Holy Qur’an as follows: “And among His signs is the creation of the heavens and the earth, and all living beings He dispersed throughout both.”1 The Almighty Allah (swt) teaches us that the universe, which He has created in a delicate balance and order, is His creation. He (swt) reminds us that it is He Who has created this world and all that is in it, Who sustains it and rules over it.
Dear Muslims!
People who look at their environment through the lens of wisdom will see many wonders in the heavens having no pillars to stand on, in the earth being made suitable for life, in short, in the perfect functioning of the universe. They will find much wisdom in the growth of different kinds of plants in the soil that revives with the rain falling from the sky, in the beautiful sights of our dear friends, the animals, and in the countless benefits that they provide for us.
Dear Believers!
Let us cherish each and every being for the sake of the Creator. Let us read the book of the universe through the lens of reason, contemplation, and wisdom. Let us use our resources in moderation and not waste them. Let us observe and protect the delicate balance Allah the Almighty (swt) has established on earth. Let us fulfill our responsibility to our environment with a consciousness of worship. Let us keep in mind that our Lord (swt) is the sole owner of the universe, and we are the trustees. Let us not forget that our environment is an inheritance from our ancestors and a unique entrustment we will leave to our children.
[1] Shura, 42/29.
FRIDAY KHUTBA of TOKYO CAMII “WHAT DOES OUR LORD TEACH US THROUGH THE ENVIRONMENT?” (PDF)