- Published on
The Ethical Treatment of Animals in Islam
- Authors
- Name
- Muslim
Compassion and Stewardship: The Ethical Treatment of Animals in Islam
Islam, as a comprehensive and compassionate way of life, extends its principles of ethical conduct to encompass the treatment of animals. The Quran and Hadith emphasize the moral responsibility humans have as stewards of the Earth, advocating for the humane and considerate treatment of all living beings. This Islamic perspective underscores the interconnectedness of the natural world and the profound impact that human actions have on the well-being of animals.
The Quran recognizes the intrinsic value of animals and acknowledges their role as communities akin to human societies. In Surah Al-An'am (6:141), believers are reminded to consume what is lawful and good, and not to waste resources: "And do not waste [resources], for indeed, He does not like the wasteful." This injunction extends to the treatment of animals, emphasizing the ethical use of natural resources and the avoidance of extravagance.
Moreover, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) exemplified kindness and consideration towards animals in his daily life. Numerous Hadiths highlight his teachings on humane treatment, such as the one narrated by Abdullah ibn Ja'far, where the Prophet said, "A good deed done to an animal is as good as doing good to a human being."
Islam strictly prohibits the unnecessary harm or cruelty towards animals. The concept of "Ma'ruf" (kindness and goodness) extends to animals, and Muslims are encouraged to display compassion in all their interactions. This principle is beautifully encapsulated in a Hadith where the Prophet emphasized, "Whoever is kind to the creatures of God, he is kind to himself."
A Marfu' narration (from the Prophet (ﷺ)), saying: "A crippled animal whose limp is obvious is not to be slaughtered as sacrifice, nor an animal with a bad eye whose blindness is obvious, nor a sick animal whose sickness is obvious, nor an emaciated animal that has no marrow (in its bones)."
that the Prophet (ﷺ) said: "Indeed Allah has decreed Ihsan in everything. So when you kill, then do the killing well, and when you slaughter, then do the slaughtering well. Let one of you sharpen his blade, and let him comfort his animal (before slaughtering)."
Islamic teachings also offer guidance on the methods of slaughtering animals for consumption. The practice of "Zabiha" or ritual slaughter requires that animals be treated with respect, slaughtered swiftly with a sharp knife, and be in the healthiest condition possible. This ensures minimal pain and distress for the animal. For many Muslims living in the west, we seek out meat that has been processed this way using sites like Zabiha.com
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) forbade killing any animal when it is tied up (for use as a target).
Islam further promotes environmental stewardship, recognizing the delicate balance in nature. Wanton destruction of wildlife or habitat is discouraged, and believers are reminded in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:205) that corruption on land and sea is a consequence of human actions: "And when he goes away, he strives throughout the land to cause corruption therein and destroy crops and animals. And Allah does not like corruption."
Islamic teachings also extend the concept of "Sadaqah" (charity) to animals, emphasizing the provision of food and water. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) spoke about a woman who entered the Hellfire due to her mistreatment of a cat, highlighting the severe consequences of cruelty towards animals.
In contemporary times, as awareness of animal welfare grows, Muslims are increasingly recognizing the importance of responsible and compassionate treatment of animals. Initiatives promoting ethical farming practices, conservation efforts, and animal welfare organizations align with the Islamic ethos of stewardship.
The Messenger of Allah said: "There are five animals all of which are vermin and may be killed inside the sanctuary: Crow, kites, vicious dogs, mice and scorpions.'
I heard the Messenger of Allah [SAW] say: 'The angels do not enter a house in which there is a dog or an image of an animate being.'
The latter reference is generally difficult for people in the west to accept since dogs are considered man's best friend. Despite all the humane and kind treatment to animals Islam promotes, there are some people who will use this hadith to pervert the main idea of ethics. I love dogs like all living things and want what is good for their nature and ours, and in this case, that means living separately.
It was narrated that Hisham bin Zaid said; "Ans and I entered upon Al-Hakam - that it, Ibn Ayyb - and there were some people shooting at a chicken in the house of the governor. He said: 'The Messenger of Allah forbade using animals as targets;'
In conclusion, Islam places a profound emphasis on the ethical treatment of animals, recognizing their inherent value and their role as part of a larger ecological system. By embodying the principles of compassion, responsibility, and respect towards animals, Muslims contribute to a harmonious coexistence with the natural world, fulfilling their role as stewards of the Earth in accordance with Islamic teachings.
References
It was narrated from Abu Tha’labah Al-Khushani that the Prophet (ﷺ) forbade eating any predatory animal that has fangs.
that the Prophet (ﷺ) said: "No Muslim plants a plant or sows a crop, then a person, or a bird, or an animal eats from it, except that it will be charity for him."
That the Prophet (ﷺ) said: "None of you should eat from the meat of his sacrificial animal beyond three days."