ENVIRONMENT

Masjid-e-Quba and its Environment

Masjid-e-Quba actively promotes the use of natural resources by encouraging people to use water more responsibly by reminding worshippers it is a gift from Allah   – specifically at the times of washing before prayer. We have also had stalls promoting recycling outside the front of the Masjid after Friday prayers in conjunction with our neighbours NLMCC and Hackney Recycling Unit

The Masjid regularly reminds worshippers to walk to the Masjid which helps towards a healthy lifestyle and healthy planet. (by reducing the amount of each worshippers carbon footprint). We also try to ensure materials used to decorate the Masjid and for its general upkeep are from sustainable renewable resources that cause as less a harmful effect on the environment as possible. Worshippers regularly also commute to the Masjid via bicycles and public transport.

The middle glass front of the Masjid is specifically designed to allow as much natural light in as possible reducing the need for artificial light in the main stair corridor that links the main Masjid with the 3 floors of the Madressah. Similar has also been done for the main prayer halls ceiling to include sky lights to allow as much natural light in as possible.  Energy efficient lighting is also used throughout the Masjid.

Islam and the Environment

Islam cares about all aspects of life. Whoever reads the Glorious Qur’an and the Prophet’s Sunnah thoroughly will undoubtedly realise this fact. Here, we recall the Qur’anic verse that reads, (There is not an animal in the earth, nor a flying creature flying on two wings, but they are peoples like unto you. We have neglected nothing in the Book (of Our decrees). Then unto their Lord they will be gathered.) (Al-An`am 6: 38)

It was repeatedly mentioned in the Qur’an that man should not engage himself in acts that entails spoiling the earth after Almighty Allah has created it suitable and well prepared for the successive human generations. It announced that Allah does not like spoiling or those who spoil in life; this includes spoiling environment, polluting it or being aggressive with it. Also it is forbidden to abuse it in any way that would make it deviate from the purpose Allah created it for.

Many people express their concern these days about the preservation of the environment, so much so that this has become a trend worldwide. It is interesting to indicate here that an increasing number of people in the West ask about the position of Islam toward the environment. Here are a few thoughts on the subject:

First of all, Islam makes it incumbent on every Muslim to contribute his/her share in improving greenery. Muslims should be active in growing more trees for the benefit of all people. In one tradition the Prophet says: “If the Hour is about to take place while any one of you has a sapling in his hand, which he can cultivate before it takes place, let him cultivate it for he will be rewarded for it.”

Every country in the world worries about wasting water. This applies even to Canada, one of the richest states in water resources. Look how Islam deals with this issue. A Muslim is recommended to save water in his ceremonial washing for Prayer even if he has a river at his disposal, according to one tradition of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him). Furthermore, a Muslim is warned against urinating in still water. Islam’s care of the environment is not limited to times of peace. This also applies to behavior in time of conflict conditions where Muslims are required to avoid cutting trees which are useful to people in general.

Islam’s mercy is not restricted to human beings but is extended to animals and birds. Game hunting of birds or animals just for the pleasure of the sport and not for a real need is forbidden in Islam.

The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) once saw a mother bird flying over the heads of a group of Muslims as if seeking for its little one which they had taken. Seeing this, the Prophet ordered them to return the little bird back to its mother.

Even insects, Islam gives a special attention to them; it considers them signs and miracles of Allah. That is why insects like flies, spiders and bees, ants, etc. are mentioned in the context of being miracles of Allah in the Qur’an.

The Prophet warned us against cursing animals which we ride, and which carry our burdens. He, on the contrary, commands Muslims to treat them gently and with kindness.

All games and sports harmful to animals and birds are forbidden in Islam because of their cruelty.

In no other religion, philosophy or ideology except Islam do we find a unique attitude toward nature i.e. the universe. Time and again we find Allah taking oaths in the Qur’an by various elements of nature, His creation. Several chapters in the Qur’an begin with an oath like: By the Heavens, by the moon, the sun, the stars, the night, the day, the trees, animals, vegetation, etc…. This is to indicate, among other things, the great value of these elements.

Islam considers all creatures to be Almighty Allah’s slaves. They surrender to His laws, and every creature has his form and method of worship. They all glorify Allah, each in his own way. Thus, Islam establishes a relationship of true love and harmony between man and all creation.

It is the duty of Muslims to remove dirt and obstacles from roads and streets. This is also regarded as an act of worship in Islam. Cleanliness of front and back yards is encouraged also. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) says: “Allah is beautiful and He loves the beautiful.