In connection with World Environment Day, the Da’wah Academy of the International Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI) organized a seminar titled “Environmental Protection and the Responsibility of Religious Scholars.”
The event was presided over by Director General of Da’wah Academy, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ilyas, while the keynote address was delivered by renowned educationist and environmental expert, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Irfan Khan.
The seminar was attended by distinguished scholars, khateebs, and academic members from Rawalpindi, Islamabad, and various departments of the university.
In his lecture, Prof. Dr. Irfan Khan emphasized that environmental protection lies at the heart of Islamic teachings. He noted that while the issue is often associated with Western discourse today, Islam offered clear and comprehensive guidance on the matter centuries ago. He cited Quranic expressions such as “بارکنا حوله” (We blessed its surroundings) as evidence that the natural environment is not merely a collection of resources but a sacred blessing to be preserved.
He stressed that environmental preservation is not limited to preventing pollution, it is fundamentally connected to the survival and balance of human, animal, and plant life. He highlighted that the careful use of air, water, soil, forests, and natural resources is both a necessity of life and a requirement of Shariah.
Dr. Irfan further remarked that Islam’s concept of Ihsan (excellence) extends beyond human interactions to include all of creation and nature itself. Neglecting our responsibilities toward the environment, he warned, leads not only to worldly harm but also to a failure in fulfilling religious obligations.
Addressing the participants, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ilyas underscored that Islam is a complete code of life that provides guidance in all areas, including environmental ethics. He referred to numerous examples from the life of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) that promote environmental balance, cleanliness, tree conservation, and the mindful use of water.
He pointed out that the consequences of environmental degradation are being borne by all of humanity and nature, and that scientific solutions alone are insufficient. What is needed, he said, is a combination of moral, spiritual, and religious awareness areas in which scholars, khateebs, and academics have a vital role to play.
The seminar concluded with an engaging Q&A session where participants posed diverse questions relating to environmental issues and Islamic teachings. Dr. Irfan Khan provided comprehensive and satisfactory responses to all queries.
At the close of the program, Dr. Muhammad Ahmad Zubairi, Chairman of the Research Department, expressed his gratitude to all attendees and contributors.