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Overview of Islam and the Holy Qur'an's Attitude Toward the Environment and Garden design
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Maryam Dehestani-Ardakani *   |
| Ardakan University & Medicinal and Industrial Plant Research Institute, Ardakan, Iran |
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Abstract: (16 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 causing damage 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 moral-ethical obligations 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. The Islamic virtue of gratitude (shukur) further reinforces an environmentally conscious position, as believers are encouraged to appreciate and properly steward Allah's natural gifts. As a universal and revealed religion, Islam provides guidance on environmental stewardship that frames 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". This understanding has informed the design of religious spaces across different faiths and cultures, where vegetation helps establish a sense of tranquility and spiritual connection. |
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| Keywords: Islam, Persian garden, Paradise, Landscape, Mosque |
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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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