Doha, Qatar: As millions of Muslims prepare for the sacred pilgrimage of Hajj, a deeper conversation is emerging - one that connects the rituals of worship with the responsibilities of environmental stewardship.
According to Professor of Islamic Finance at Hamad Bin Khalifa University’s College of Islamic Studies, Dr. Abdulazeem Abo Zaid, Islam not only acknowledges the environmental challenges posed by large gatherings like Hajj but also provides clear guidance to address them.
“Islam urges individuals to preserve their environment and natural resources in general,” Dr. Abo Zaid told The Peninsula.
“During the Hajj season, millions of people gather in one place, which poses some environmental challenges. However, Islam has taken this into consideration and has prescribed special rules for Hajj to mitigate the potential environmental risks.”
Among these rules is a strong emphasis on cleanliness. Pilgrims are encouraged to properly dispose of waste, placing it in designated areas rather than leaving it behind. Another environmentally conscious measure embedded in the Hajj rituals is the practice of sharing sacrificial animals. “Seven people can share a single animal, whether a cow or a camel,” Dr. Abo Zaid said. This not only reduces the number of animals slaughtered but also helps manage waste. Moreover, Islam permits the distribution of excess meat to poorer regions, ensuring resources are not wasted.
Environmental mindfulness also extends to the clothing worn during Hajj. The ihram — a simple, unstitched white garment — symbolises humility and equality. “Sharia law does not stipulate any specific conditions for ihram garments, other than that it covers the parts of the body it is supposed to cover and that it is unsewn,” he said. This design is intended to reflect a state of humility and remind pilgrims of their mortality, akin to the burial shroud.
Yet, within this simplicity, there is room for innovation — particularly sustainable innovation.
“Everything that contributes to protecting and caring for the environment is either obligatory or recommended in Islam,” Dr. Abo Zaid said.
Using eco-friendly fabrics for ihram garments aligns directly with Islamic values.
“This includes using environmentally-friendly fabrics when making ihram clothing, as this aligns with the objectives of Sharia in preserving natural resources.”
At the heart of this environmental ethos lies the Islamic concept of Istikhlaf, or stewardship of the Earth.
“Succession, or stewardship on earth, requires that natural resources be preserved and protected, so that life on Earth can continue,” Dr. Abo Zaid said.
