قرآن مجید اور ماحولیاتی بحران: موسمیاتی تبدیلی کے تناظر میں قرآنی تعلیمات کا تجزیاتی جائزہ

THE HOLY QUR’AN AND THE ENVIRONMENTAL CRISIS: AN ANALYTICAL STUDY OF QUR’ANIC TEACHINGS IN THE CONTEXT OF CLIMATE CHANGE

Abstract

In the contemporary global context, the environmental crisis and climate change have emerged as complex and multidimensional challenges whose impacts are no longer confined to the natural environment but extend to economic systems, public health, social structures, and international politics. Rising global temperatures, irregular precipitation patterns, sea-level rise, rapid deforestation, and increasing air pollution collectively indicate a profound imbalance in humanity’s relationship with nature.This scholarly study presents the Qur’an as a comprehensive environmental ethical framework that redefines the relationship between human beings and nature on the basis of responsibility, trusteeship (amanah), and moral accountability rather than mere utilitarian exploitation. Core Qur’anic concepts such as ''Mīzān'' (cosmic balance), ''Fasād fī al-Arḍ'' (corruption on earth), ''Khilāfah'' (human stewardship), ''Amanah'' (trust), and ''Isrāf and Tabdhīr'' (wasteful consumption) collectively form the foundation of this ecological worldview.The central argument of this research is that the Qur’an does not present the universe as a purposeless material system but as a divinely designed, purposeful, and balanced order in which every component operates within a defined measure and wisdom. Within this system, human beings are not merely consumers but are appointed as vicegerents (khulafāʾ) and trustees responsible for maintaining justice, balance, and moderation in the use of natural resources.

Drawing upon classical Qur’anic exegeses, particularly those of Imam al-Ṭabarī, Imam Ibn Kathīr, and Imam al-Qurṭubī, this study demonstrates that Qur’anic environmental teachings are not limited to spiritual or moral guidance but constitute a structured framework for environmental governance and ecological ethics. For instance, the concept of ''Mīzān'' emphasizes the preservation of cosmic equilibrium, while ''Fasād fī al-Arḍ'' describes environmental degradation resulting from human actions.Furthermore, modern environmental issues such as industrial pollution, deforestation, water and air contamination, and loss of biodiversity are analyzed through Qur’anic principles, revealing that these crises stem primarily from human excess, imbalance, and unsustainable consumption patterns concepts explicitly addressed in the Qur’an as ''Isrāf'' (extravagance) and ''Fasād'' (corruption).In conclusion, this study argues that the environmental crisis is not merely a scientific or technical issue but also a profound ethical, religious, and civilizational challenge. Integrating Qur’anic principles of balance, stewardship, and trust into contemporary environmental policies and human behavior can provide a viable pathway toward ecological stability and sustainable development.