SEJ 203 Earth and Environment: Islamic Perspective

In the Earth and Environment: Islamic Perspective course, students embark on an in-depth exploration of Islamic attitudes toward nature and the environment, engaging with rules and values derived from the Qurʾan, the Sunnah, and the works of prominent Muslim scholars and scientists. This course introduces students to the emerging field of religion and ecology, examining its development over recent decades. Students analyze human relationships with the natural world through Islamic teachings while drawing comparisons with other religious and cultural traditions. They critically explore how religion—specifically Islam—identifies environmental concerns and guides responses to ecological challenges. Throughout the course, participants investigate historical and contemporary Muslim approaches to environmental issues, studying transformative efforts that demonstrate how Islamic teachings contribute to sustainable ecological practices. The course aims to cultivate deep understanding of Islamic ecological ethics while encouraging active engagement with modern environmental challenges through an Islamic framework. Students complete the course equipped with knowledge and perspectives necessary to contribute meaningfully to sustainable practices within Islamic contexts.