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An overview of the attitude of Islam and the Holy Quran to the environment and gardening
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Maryam Dehestani-Ardakani *   |
| Ardakan University & Medicinal and Industrial Plant Research Institute, Ardakan, Iran |
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Abstract: (1048 Views) |
In Islam, the relationship between humans and the natural environment is deeply rooted in religious teachings that establish ecological values as fundamental aspects of faith. The Qur'an provides a comprehensive framework that integrates environmental consciousness with spiritual practice, warning against harming to the earth and establishing what can be described as a "green religion" that stresses the integral relationship between faith and nature. This ecological dimension of Islam extends Ethical commitments beyond human interactions to encompass responsibility toward the natural world. From the Quranic perspective, nature serves both the incorporeal and physical needs of humanity. Islam teaches that humans were created to serve the Creator, which ultimately means striving for the highest quality of life for themselves, their communities, and the world, a principle that forms the foundation of Islamic environmental ethics. As a universal and revealed religion, Islam provides guidance on environmental stewardship, framing humans as superior creatures who are nonetheless accountable for their treatment of natural resources. Islamic teachings make clear that while Allah has provided natural resources for human benefit, people are not free to use these resources wastefully or destructively. Rather, as stewards, humans will be held accountable for their actions regarding these resources. Throughout history, religious buildings and complexes have incorporated green spaces and gardens as integral components of their design. Plants serve as "a powerful tool in the hands of architects to create and enrich the quality of space". Religious gardens and green spaces have traditionally served multiple purposes beyond aesthetics. They provide places for contemplation, prayer, and community gathering while creating a symbolic bridge between the earthly and divine realms. These sacred landscapes often reflect theological principles and cultural values specific to their religious traditions, establishing environments that support worship and spiritual practices. The integration of vegetation in religious settings also serves practical functions, offering shade, defining pathways, and creating comfortable microclimates for visitors. This functional dimension complements the symbolic and spiritual aspects, resulting in holistic environments that address both physical and metaphysical needs of worshippers. Islamic gardens developed distinctive characteristics across the Muslim world, from the Maghreb to Persia and beyond, yet they consistently embodied core Islamic principles of unity, harmony, and reverence for nature. These garden traditions have influenced not only landscape design but also Islamic art, poetry, and cultural practices throughout history. |
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| Keywords: Islam, Persian garden, Paradise, Landscape, Mosque |
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Full-Text [PDF 650 kb]
(115 Downloads)
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Type of Study: Review |
Subject:
General
Received: 2025/03/26 | Accepted: 2026/06/8 | Published: 2026/06/8
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