Deforestation and the Islamic Stewardship Ethic
- Conclusion =============
Most people believe that strict anthropocentrism is the significant cause of environmental destruction like deforestation. Many models are seen these days that attempt to deal with this problem, and in some cases, concern about saving the forests is seen as an ethical issue. Environmental stewardship can be defined as using natural resources ethically so as to equally improve the welfare of society, other living organisms, and future generations.
Environmental stewardship is oftentimes founded upon an eco-centric model of ethics, but it can also be built upon a theo-centric model. Theocentric ethics include the idea of accountability to God.
Environmental stewardship is related to theo-centrism as an approach of God to the world. It is driven by religious faith, where God is Earth’s creator and sustainer. According to the teachings of Islam, people have an important role to play in preserving the natural environmental resources, the role of God’s vice-regent, trustee, or steward on Earth. The Islamic ideas of tawhid (unity) and khalifah (stewardship) exist as commandments in the Islamic Shari’ah law, and if followed, provide a practical guide to protect natural resources, wildlife, and forests. As with Christianity and Judaism, in Islam, the principle of taking care of the environment is an important mission. Religions can modify the views and beliefs of people in the world, which in turn motivates the basic approaches and values of diverse cultures and societies in protecting and preserving the environment.
Environmental stewardship can be found in both theo-centric and eco-centric philosophies, which means that this effect is not only related to Islam or religions in general, but it is a solution for solving environmental issues like deforestation. The fact that stewardship can be found in different philosophies and religions does not diminish its importance or effectiveness. In fact, it can motivate Muslims and non-Muslims, alike, to preserve the nature entrusted to everybody. This is a universal concept toward the environment that almost everyone can agree upon.