Environmental protection in the sacred texts of Islam and Christianity

Document Type : Original Article

Author

Professor of Qom Seminary

10.22081/jti.2025.72151.1098

Abstract

To ensure the sustenance of life on our planet, a range of essential elements are required, including water, soil, air, trees, and plants, and it becomes our responsibility to safeguard the environment. Environmental conservation has long been a pressing concern throughout human history, but it has now become a formidable challenge. Indeed, it forms the very foundation of human life. Remarkably, the sacred texts of Islam and Christianity recognized this issue centuries ago, imparting guidance to their followers regarding the preservation of the environment. These instructions encompass diverse aspects such as the preservation of trees, promoting agricultural development and afforestation, safeguarding water resources, advocating against wastage and pollution, and avoiding restrictions on its access, particularly during times of conflict. Additionally, emphasis is placed on the sustainable development and cleanliness of lands and habitats, the prevention of pollution in our surroundings, and the significance of clean air for sustaining life. Muslims and Christians, recognizing their human and religious duties, are called upon to actively defend and refrain from damaging the environment that surrounds them. This research aims to undertake a comparative study of the sacred texts of Islam and Christianity concerning environmental protection, shedding light on their shared teachings and insights on this crucial subject. The scope of this research is the sacred texts of Islam and Christianity, and it has been done as a case-by-case comparison in issues related to the environment.

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