SMILE! IT'S SUNNAH

SMILE! IT'S SUNNAH

The magical effect that a smile has on others is well-known. Allaah The Almighty created mankind with an innate inclination to love those who are friendly. A person who meets others with a smile drives away their anxiety and troubles and spreads tranquility and comfort. This is because smiling is a commendable characteristic, and the one who smiles is complimented.

The Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, was known to have a pleasant smiling face. In fact, it became a part of his character. The people who socialized with him recognized this characteristic in him. ‘Abdullaah ibnul-Haarith ibn Hazm, may Allaah be pleased with him, said:

 "I never saw anyone smile more than the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam." [At-Tirmithi]

Jareer ibn ‘Abdullaah Al-Bajali, may Allaah be pleased with him, said: 

"The Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, did not keep himself from me ever since I embraced Islam, and whenever he saw me he received me with a smile." [Al-Bukhaari and Muslim]

This was how the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, gained the affection of people, and this made them more ready to accept the truth that he proclaimed.

This was stressed by the saying of ‘Aa'ishah, may Allaah be pleased with her, 

"I never saw the Messenger of Allaah, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, laughing to the extent that I could see his uvula (the fleshy lobe at the back of his palate) - he would only smile." [Al-Bukhaari and Muslim]

This was further accentuated by the description of ‘Ali, may Allaah be pleased with him, 

"The laughter of the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, was mostly smiling; it was then that his white teeth showed."

Based on the previous saying, we can understand another saying of Jaabir in Samurah, may Allaah be pleased with him, who said,

"The Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, would remain silent for long periods of time, and would never laugh excessively."

Commenting on this matter, Imaam Ibn Hajar, may Allaah have mercy upon him, said,

 "What is understood from these Hadeeths is that the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, would, in most cases, only smile, and he would sometimes laugh. It is unfavorable to laugh too much or to exaggerate in laughter because it removes solemnity."

Books on the biography of the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, mention many situations in which the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, smiled. He, sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam, would address those who were around him, issue Islamic verdicts or undergo different incidents, but he would face all this with a shining soul and a cheerful spirit. The following are some examples:

Anas ibn Maalik, may Allaah be pleased with him, said,

Once, while the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, was delivering the Friday Khutbah, the people stood up and called out, “O Messenger of Allaah, there is no rain (i.e. we are suffering a drought), the trees have dried up and the livestock are destroyed; ask Allaah The Almighty to bless us with rain.” So he, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, said twice:"O Allaah, Bless us with rain." Then, a cloud appeared and it started raining. The Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, then descended from the pulpit and performed prayer.

When he left, it was raining, and it rained continuously till the following Friday. When the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, started delivering the Friday Khutbah, the people started calling out, “The houses have collapsed and the roads are cut off; so ask Allaah to withhold the rain.” So the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, smiled and said:

"O Allaah! Keep it around us and not on us."Whichever side the Prophet directed his hand to, the clouds dispersed and kept raining around Madeenah as a miracle of the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, and as an answer to his supplication. [Al-Bukhaari and Muslim]

Once, Suhayb ibn Sinaan, may Allaah be pleased with him, went to the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, while he had dates and bread in his hand, so the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, invited him to eat with him. When he started eating the dates, the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, looked at Suhayb ibn Sinaan, may Allaah be pleased with him, and remarked: "You have a sore eye!"It was known among the Arabs that eating dates aggravates such a condition. Suhayb, may Allaah be pleased with him, replied, "O Messenger of Allaah! I am eating [the date] from the other side [of my mouth that is under the well eye]." At that, the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, smiled. [Ahmad]

In another Hadeeth, Zayd ibn Arqam, may Allaah be pleased with him, said,

 "I once felt extreme anxiety and stress that no one else has ever felt. When I was walking with the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, I lowered my head out of distress. Then, the Messenger of Allaah, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, came up to me, tweaked my ear, then smiled at me. What the Messenger of Allaah, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, did was more beloved to me than having the pleasures of paradise on earth." [At-Tirmithi]

Also, Jaabir, may Allaah be pleased with him, said,

 "A man came to the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, and said: 'O Messenger of Allaah! I saw in a dream that my head was cut off.' Thereupon, the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, laughed and said: ‘Do not tell anyone if the devil tampers with your dreams.’" [Muslim]

‘Aa'ishah, may Allaah be pleased with her, said, 

"One morning, Hafsah, may Allaah be pleased with her, and I intended to do a voluntary fast. However, we received a gift of food and ate. When the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, entered, Hafsah, may Allaah be pleased with her, asked him before I did,‘O Messenger of Allaah! We intended to fast, but received food as a gift and ate some of it.’ Thereupon, the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, smiled, and ordered them to fast another day instead of that one.” [Al-Bayhaqi]

Another Hadeeth in this context is narrated by Abu Hurayrah, may Allaah be pleased with him, who said,

While we were sitting in the house of the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, a man came to him, and said: “O Messenger of Allaah, I am ruined!”

The Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, asked:“What is the matter?” 

He replied: “I had sexual intercourse with my wife while fasting.”

The Messenger, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, asked him: "Can you afford to free a slave?"He replied in the negative.

The Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, asked him: "Can you fast for two successive months?" He again replied in the negative. 

The Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, then asked him: "Can you afford to feed sixty poor persons?"He replied in the negative.

After a while, some dates were brought to the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, then he asked:"Where is the questioner?" He replied: "I [am here]."

The Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, said [to him]:"Take these [dates] and give them in charity."

The man then said: "Is there a person poorer than me that I can give it to? By Allaah, there is no family between the two mountains [of Madeenah] who are poorer than me."

The Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, smiled till his pre-molar teeth became visible, and said:"Feed it to your family."  [Al-Bukhaari and Muslim]

The advice of the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, is sufficient for us: "To smile at your brother is charity." [Ibn Hibbaan]

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3 PRODUCTIVE WAYS TO GIVE SADAQAH AS A FAMILY

3 PRODUCTIVE WAYS TO GIVE SADAQAH AS A FAMILY

Giving Sadaqah (charity) is not only a great way to fulfill the needs of the poor, but also serves as a purification of the heart. Therefore, it is important to instill a sense of compassion and the love for charity in your children from an early age on.

To help you achieve this, I want to focus on three, hopefully original ideas to involve your entire family when giving Sadaqah. However, since they are all considered monetary charity in one way or another, it is important to let your family know that there are many ways to give what is called physical charity: like smiling at others or removing something harmful from the road, and that every good deed, no matter how small, is considered Sadaqah.

1. Sponsor an orphan

There are various ways on how to go about sponsoring an orphan. One way that I know of is doing so through the organization called Islamic Relief. The sponsorships they offer definitely do not cost the world and many Muslim families can afford it. For the two Eids, you can send extra money to make sure that the orphan child also gets to enjoy the religious holidays. The sponsorship will in sha Allah broaden the cultural horizon of your children because they will be likely to develop an interest for the country and culture that the orphan is from. 

To strengthen the bond between the orphan and your family even more, you can write letters to them as a family or help your kids do so. Know that you and your family will be giving this child opportunities that he/she would otherwise never have. And since your family will be supporting an orphan for many years to come, you will all in sha Allah be showered with blessings and be close to the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allāh be upon him) in Paradise, as he (peace and blessings of Allāh be upon him) said:

“I and the one who looks after an orphan will be like this in Paradise,”showing his middle and index fingers and separating them. [Bukhari]

2. Host a dinner party

I personally am not a huge fan of hosting dinner parties during Ramadan as I feel it takes away precious time from important worship. However, I don’t have anything against them during the rest of the year – if they are done with the right intention that is. Why not invite some family friends and/or neighbors over for dinner, preferably some who have kids themselves? This in itself is already considered Sadaqah. Get your whole family involved when it comes to the preparation of the dinner. Decide on a meal with your kids and spouse, go grocery shopping as a family and spend time in the kitchen together preparing the food. 

Decorate the table and create a nice atmosphere for your guests. Once a year or so, you can take it to the next level by inviting more people to the dinner party and at the same time collecting money for a good cause. Make sure to agree with your family and guests on a charity or project to give it to. This way, you will not only be rewarded for feeding others, but also for encouraging them to spend in the path of Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) themselves.

3. Visit a local orphanage

Look for an orphanage in your area and plan a visit with your family. Speak to the person in charge and agree on a date and time. Let your kids help you prepare little goodie bags filled with sweets, pencils, uplifting hadiths/quotes etc. Most of the children at orphanages have been through a lot, so if you, or anyone you know, are able to make balloon sculptures and similar handicrafts, use this talent to make them laugh. You can also encourage your kids to bring some of their favorite books, so they read stories to the children at the orphanage.

 Also, buy some other essentials, like soap, toothpaste, towels or food items depending on what the orphanage needs the most. This visit will definitely be something that your kids will remember for a long time. In sha Allah, they will realize how good their life is and will appreciate you as their parents much more.

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The Concept of Thankfulness in Islam

According to Islam, one of our foremost duties is to be grateful to God for all of His blessings. We can describe three levels of thankfulness:

1. To realize and appreciate all blessings by and within the heart.
2. To say thanks with the tongue.
3. To express gratitude by doing righteous deeds.

In other words, the first level is the appreciativeness and gratefulness that we feel in our hearts. Then we fortify that thankfulness through our speech. And the third level is when we prove by our deeds that we are truly thankful to God. (Read more: Attitude of Gratitude)

Becoming more Thankful

As we open the Quran, the first chapter starts with ‘Alhamdulillah’ which is generally translated as “all praise is for God.” In reality, the word Alhamdulillah signifies gratitude in our everyday lives. Hence, when someone asks how we are, Muslim often respond with, “Alhamdulillah.” Similarly, Islam teaches us to be thankful throughout the day: for waking up from sleep, after eating our meals, drinking water, etc. In this way, one’s entire life revolves around gratitude to God.

In Chapter 55 of the Quran, titled “The Lord of Mercy,” God asks the same question thirty-one times, “Which of the favors of your Lord will you deny?” God has created us and then made this world for us. We are getting benefits from all of His creations such as the sun, moon, clouds, rain, air, grasslands, animals, plants, rivers, oceans and countless other bounties of the natural world! After realizing all this abundance, how can a sensible person be anything but thankful to God?

God reminds us, “The seven heavens and the earth and all who dwell in them give glory to Him. There is not a single thing that is not chanting His praise yet you cannot understand their praise. He is ever forbearing, forgiving” (Quran, 17:44). Ironically, we humans are the only ones who forget to be grateful to Him. God ends the above verse by emphasizing that He is forgiving. It’s for this reason that we are not punished right away. Rather He gives us time to realize our mistakes and make amends.

Naturally, at times we may wonder whether it is truly beneficial to be grateful to God. In the Quran, God answers, “If you are thankful I will add more (favors) unto you but if you show ingratitude then my punishment is terrible indeed” (14:7). This verse proves that our gratitude is beneficial for us alone, and our ingratitude is harmful to us alone. The intelligent individuals who comprehend this basic teaching of Islam are referred to as those who are wise, who possess a mature and comprehending intellect.

Examples of Gratitude from the Quran

God gives us an example in the Quran, “We endowed Luqman with wisdom: ‘Be thankful to God: whoever gives thanks benefits his own soul, and as for those who are thankless––God is self-sufficient, worthy of all praise’” (31:12). Luqman is recognized with the title of “The wise” just because he is thankful to God. Luqman recognizes that God is the one who grants everything so therefore He is the One who deserves thankfulness. May God give us wisdom to give thanks for all blessings by which we survive and thrive day after day.

Prophet Abraham describes God’s blessings in the most beautiful way: “…Who created me, and He [it is who] guides me. And it is He who feeds me and gives me drink; and when I am ill, it is He who cures me; and who will cause me to die and then bring me to life; and who, I hope, will forgive me my faults on the Day of Judgment.” (Quran 26:78-85). (Learn more about Abraham, a prophet of Islam.)

Another example if that of Solomon. The Quran mentions that he said, “My Lord, enable me to be grateful for Your favor which You have bestowed upon me and upon my parents and to do righteousness of which You approve. And admit me by Your mercy into [the ranks of] Your righteous servants.” (Quran 27:19)

In Chapter 4 of the Quran, God asks us a simple question: “Why should God make you suffer torment if you are thankful and believe in Him? God always rewards gratitude and He knows everything” (Quran, 4:147).

In this verse, God mentions thankfulness even before belief in Him. Similarly, the first chapter of the Quran gives us a lesson in gratitude and the second chapter, which is the longest chapter of the Quran, invites us towards belief in the One God. Therefore, gratefulness leads to the path of faith.

God loves us 70 times more than a mother loves her child, according to a tradition of Prophet Muhammad. God has also sent numerous prophets over the course of human history to guide us. (Click here to read about prophets in Islam.) Now it is up to us to be grateful and to have faith in Him – in our hearts, with our tongues, and through our actions.

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Women in Islam

Oppressed, inferior, and unequal – for many people, these are the first words that come to mind when thinking about women in Islam. These stereotypes confuse Islam with cultural practices and fail to recognize that Islam has empowered women with the most progressive rights since the 7^th century. In Islam, women are not inferior or unequal to men. This brochure presents the actual teachings of Islam regarding the rights, roles, and responsibilities of women, with a special focus on gender equality in Islam.

At a time when female children were buried alive inArabiaand women were considered transferable property, Islam honored women in society by elevating them and protecting them with unprecedented rights. Islam gave women the right to education, to marry someone of their choice, to retain their identity after marriage, to divorce, to work, to own and sell property, to seek protection by the law, to vote, and to participate in civic and political engagement.

In 610 C.E., God began to reveal the message of Islam to Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him (pbuh), inMecca. Muhammad (pbuh) called people towards the belief in one God and encouraged them to be just and merciful to one another. In reforming the pagan Arab society, he particularly transformed their mindset regarding the treatment of women. Islam abolished the practice of killing female children and raised the stature of women in society to one of dignity, esteem, and privilege.

God devotes an entire chapter of the Quran, the holy book of Islam, to women. In addition, God directly addresses women repeatedly throughout the Quran. Islam proclaims that all human beings, men and women, are born in a pure state. The goal of every Muslim is to preserve this purity by shunning evil tendencies and beautifying their inner being with virtuous traits.

Islam further confirms that both men and women are equal in the sight of God. In the Quran, God declares, “…Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you…” (49:13) At another place in the Quran, God clearly states that all humans are equal: “To whoever, male or female, does good deeds and has faith, We shall give a good life and reward them according to the best of their actions.” (16:97)

While Islam clearly establishes that men and women are equal, it does recognize that they are not identical. God created men and women with unique physiological and psychological attributes. In Islam, these differences are embraced as vital components to a healthy family and community structure with each individual contributing their own distinctive talents to society.

Hence, God’s rules apply to both genders, but in diverse ways. For example, God commanded women to cover certain parts of their body, including their hair, to preserve their modesty. Men are also required to cover parts of their body out of modesty, but not in the same way as women. Therefore, God commanded both men and women to be modest; yet, the manner in which they observe it is different.

Similarly, the rights, roles, and responsibilities of women are evenly balanced with those of men but are not necessarily the same. As Islam has granted individual identities to men and women, a constant comparison between the two is futile. Each plays a unique role to mutually uphold social morality and societal balance.

The following overview details a wide range of women’s rights in Islam. It addresses some common misconceptions and provides insight into the diverse roles and responsibilities women fulfill in society. It must also be mentioned here that Muslims are not always representative of Islam and may follow their cultural influences or personal interests. In so doing, they not only disenfranchise women, they also go against the clear guidelines laid out in Islam regarding the treatment of women. Therefore, their practices go against the liberties and entitlements which Islam empowers women with, as shown below.

Education

Back in the 7^th century, Muhammad (pbuh) declared that the pursuit of knowledge is obligatory on every Muslim – male and female. This declaration was very clear and was largely implemented by Muslims throughout history. One of the most influential scholars of Islam was Muhammad’s wife, Aisha. After his death, men and women would travel to learn from her because she was considered a great scholar of Islam. The recognition of female scholarship and women’s participation in academia has been encouraged and practiced throughout the majority of Islamic history. For instance, al-Qarawiyin Mosque and University, the oldest running university, was funded by a woman, Fatima al-Fihri, inMorocco in 859 C.E. 

Motherhood

In Islam, God clearly gives mothers a high status and elevates their position in the family. In the Quran, God mentions all the sacrifices mothers make in bearing children to remind people to treat their mothers with love, respect, and care. Emphasizing the importance of mothers, the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) said, “Heaven lies under the feet of your mother.”

On another occasion, a man repeatedly asked Muhammad (pbuh), “Who amongst the people is the most worthy of my good companionship?” Each time, the Prophet (pbuh) replied, “Your mother.” When the man asked for the fourth time, he replied, “Your father.”

Politics and Social Services

Among the early Muslims, women were active participants in the cohesive functioning of the society. Women expressed their opinions freely and their advice was actively sought. Women nursed the wounded during battles, and some even participated on the battlefield. Women traded openly in the marketplace, so much so that the second caliph, Umar, appointed a woman, Shaffa bint Abdullah, as the supervisor of the bazaar.

In Islamic history, women participated in government, public affairs, lawmaking, scholarship, and teaching.  To continue to uphold this tradition, women are encouraged to actively participate in improving, serving, and leading the different aspects of the community.

Inheritance

Before Islam, women all across the globe were deprived of inheritance and were themselves considered property to be inherited by men. Islam gave women the right to own property and inherit from relatives, which was a revolutionary concept in the seventh century.

Whether a woman is a wife, mother, sister, or daughter, she receives a certain share of her deceased relative’s property. This share depends on her degree of relationship to the deceased and the number of heirs. While many societies around the world denied women inheritance, Islam assured women this right, illustrating the universal justice of Islam’s divine law.

Financial Responsibilities

In Islam, women are not obligated to earn or spend any money on housing, food, or general expenses. If a woman is married, her husband must fully support her financially and if she’s not married, that responsibility belongs to her closest male relative (father, brother, uncle, etc).

She also has the right to work and spend the money she earns as she wishes. She has no obligation to share her money with her husband or any other family members, although she may choose to do so out of good will. For instance, Khadija, the wife of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), was one of the most successful businesswomen ofMecca, and she freely spent from her wealth to support her husband and the cause of Islam.

At the time of marriage, a woman is entitled to a financial gift (dowry) from her husband. This dowry is legally owned by her and cannot be used by anyone else. In the case of divorce, she has the right to keep whatever she owned before the divorce and anything she personally earned after marriage. The former husband has no right whatsoever to any of her belongings. This ensures a woman’s financial security and independence, allowing her to support herself in the case of divorce.

Marriage

A woman has the right to accept or reject marriage proposals and her approval is required to complete the marriage contract. She cannot be forced to marry someone against her will and if this occurs for cultural reasons, it is in direct opposition of Islam. By the same principle, women also have the right to seek divorce if they are dissatisfied with their marriage.

In Islam, marriage is based on mutual peace, love, and compassion. God says about Himself, “And of His signs is that He created for you from yourselves mates that you may find tranquility in them; and He placed between you affection and mercy…” (Quran 30:21) Muhammad (pbuh) embodied the best character and is a role model for all Muslims. His example of being helpful around the household and treating his family with compassion and love is a tradition that Muslims strive to implement in their daily lives. Muhammad (pbuh) treated his wives with the utmost respect and honor and was never abusive towards them. One of his traditions clearly states, “The best of you are those who are best to their wives.”

Dignity and Protection from Harm

Any form of emotional, physical, or psychological abuse is prohibited in Islam and the improper treatment of women is no exception to this rule. Indeed, there is no teaching in Islam, when studied in its complete context, which condones any kind of domestic violence. Islam clearly disallows any form of oppression or abuse, according to Dr. Zainab Alwani, a leading female Muslim scholar. It cannot be stated enough times that anyone who exercises unjust authority in the name of Islam is actually doing so to uphold their own cultural influences or personal interests. All of God’s creation is dignified and protected under Islamic law. 

Modesty

In an environment which constantly emphasizes the physical form through various media, women are constantly faced with an unattainable standard of beauty. Although Muslim women are falsely classified as oppressed based on their modest dress, they are in fact liberated from such objectification by the society around them. This modest appearance, which includes veiling, highlights a woman’s personality and character instead of her physical figure and promotes a deeper appreciation for who she is as a person. In this regard, Muslim women identify with Mary, the mother of Jesus (pbuh), who is known for her piety and modesty.

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In conclusion, Islam has an extensive tradition of protecting the civil liberties of women based on the guidelines set forth by God and His Prophet. Women are empowered with many rights and protections under Islamic law and are honored with a dignified stature in society.

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                   Islam's and the Quran's View of Animal Welfare

In Islam, cruelty toward an animal is considered a sin. The Quran and guidance from the Prophet Muhammad, as recorded in the hadith, a record of Muhammad's traditions and sayings, give many examples and directives about how Muslims should treat animals.

Animal Communities

The Quran says that animals form communities, just as humans do:

"There is not an animal that lives on the earth, nor a being that flies on its wings, but they form communities like you. Nothing have we omitted from the Book, and they all shall be gathered to their Lord in the end" (Quran 6:38).

The Quran further describes all living things as Muslim, in that they live the way Allah created them to live and obey Allah's laws in the natural world. Although animals don't have free will, they follow their natural, God-given instincts and can be said to "submit to God's will," which is the essence of Islam.

Because animals are living creatures with feelings and connections to the larger spiritual and physical world, Muslims must consider their lives as worthwhile and cherished:

“Seest thou not that it is Allah Whose praise all beings in the heavens and on earth do celebrate, and the birds (of the air) with wings outspread? Each one knows its own (mode of) prayer and praise, and Allah knows well all that they do.” (Quran 24:41)

Kindness to Animals

Islam forbids treating animals cruelly or killing them except for food. Muhammad often chastised his companions, or followers, who mistreated animals and spoke to them about mercy and kindness. Here are examples from the hadith that instruct Muslims how to treat animals:

• Mercy is rewarded:
•  "Whoever is merciful even to a sparrow, Allah will be merciful to him on the Day of Judgment."
• Animals are like humans:
•  “A good deed done to an animal is like a good deed done to a human being, while an act of cruelty to an animal is as bad as cruelty to a human being."
• Animals cannot speak up for themselves: 
• Muhammad once passed a camel that was so emaciated its back had almost reached its stomach. He said, "Fear Allah in these beasts who cannot speak."
• Mental cruelty is also forbidden:
•  A group of companions was once traveling with Muhammad when he left them for a while. During his absence, they saw a bird with its two young, and they took the young ones from the nest. The mother bird was circling above in the air, beating its wings in grief, when Muhammad came back and said, ​"Who has hurt the feelings of this bird by taking its young? Return them to her."
• Give rest to beasts of burden:
•  Muhammad said, "Do not use the backs of your animals as chairs. Allah has made them subject to you so that by them you can reach places that you would not otherwise be able to reach except with great fatigue."

Treatment of Pets

Muslims who choose to keep pets take on responsibility for their care and well being, including appropriate food, water, and shelter. Muhammad described the punishment of a person who neglected a pet:

"It is related from Abdullah ibn Umar that the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said, "A woman was once punished after death because of a cat which she had kept confined until it died, and because of this she entered the Fire. She had neither given it food or drink while confining it, nor had she let it free to eat the creatures of the earth."

Hunting for Sport

In Islam, hunting for sport is prohibited; Muslims may hunt only by Allah's permission as needed for food. Sport hunting was common during Muhammad's time, and according to companions and relatives, he condemned it. Muhammad:

• Cursed those who used any living thing as a target.
• Forbade inciting animals to fight one another.
• Forbade eating mujaththama animals—that is, animals that have been tied up and shot with arrows.

Islamic dietary law allows Muslims to eat meat, though certain animals are not allowed as food. Guidelines must be followed when slaughtering to minimize the animal's suffering.

Cultural Disregard

In some Muslim communities, Islamic guidelines regarding animals aren't followed. Some people mistakenly believe that humans' needs take priority, so animal rights are not an urgent issue. Others find excuses to be cruel to animals.

The best way to combat such ignorance is through education and good example. Individuals and governments have important roles to play in educating the public about the care of animals and establishing institutions to support animal welfare.

Islamic Perspective on Animal Welfare

According to Census of Marine Life scientists, there are an estimated 8.7 million living species on earth, and yet the Quran teaches us that humans are the highest of creation. With this elevated status comes an elevated responsibility. This responsibility encompasses not only how we treat our own bodies, actions, and interactions with each other, but also how we treat other creations such as animals. Yes, animals have rights and a legitimate place in Islam. The Quran refers to animals as independent communities to be acknowledged and respected: 

“And there is no creature on [or within] the earth or bird that flies with its wings except [that they are] communities like you. We have not neglected in the Register a thing. Then unto their Lord they will be gathered” (Quran 6:38).

At the same time, many animals serve numerous purposes; some of which are for our direct beneficial use, consumption, and companionship while others are part of the circle of life and benefit us indirectly. Regardless of whether we gain any benefit from the animals around us, the Islamic perspective on animal welfare includes treating all animals as independent communities sharing this earth, finding the balance between respecting their independence while at the same time enjoying their benefits and friendship as God intended, all the while avoiding any type of cruelty toward animals.

Despite not having the free will or brain power that is bestowed upon humans, animals nonetheless live their lives the way God created them to obey His laws and follow the natural cycle of the earth. We are reminded in the Quran, 

“Do you not see that God is exalted by whomever is within the heavens and the earth and [by] the birds with wings spread [in flight]? Each [of them] has known his [means of] prayer and exalting [Him], and God is Knowing of what they do.” (Quran 24:41). This verse shows us that animals have duties and connections with the larger world, including praising God. Hence, we must respect their independent existence without infringing on their rights and responsibilities.

When Prophet Nuh (Peace Be Upon Him [PBUH]) built his ark, he was not only commanded to save the believers among his tribe, but also to preserve the existing animal species by collecting a pair of each. This shows us the importance and value of animals within our living cycle. In the Quran, it says,

 “[So it was], until when Our command came and the oven overflowed, We said, ‘Load upon the ship of each [creature] two mates and your family, except those about whom the word has preceded, and [include] whoever has believed.’ But none had believed with him, except a few.” (Quran 11:40).

In addition, many animals provide us with food, fertilize our plants, as well as inedible, yet similarly valuable products, such as wool, fur, and leather. These benefits are mentioned in the Quran: 

“Do you not see that God has made subject to you whatever is in the heavens and whatever is in the earth and amply bestowed upon you His favors, [both] apparent and unapparent? But of the people is he who disputes about God without knowledge or guidance or an enlightening Book [from Him]. (Quran 31:20). 

An important piece of information here is that despite the overwhelming benefits we gain from animals, God has commanded us to nonetheless share the earth with all living creatures. Therefore, although we gain many benefits from animals, we must remember that we are obligated to care for them and treat them as blessings and with compassion, for the Prophet (PBUH) said, “Anyone who shows mercy, even to an animal meant for slaughtering, will be shown mercy by God on the Day of Rising.”–Al-Adab Al-Mufrad, Book 20, Hadith 10.

According to the Prophet’s (PBUH) teachings, farmers and caretakers must abide by certain guidelines when dealing with animals:

1. Provide appropriate food and fresh water
2. Provide a safe and comfortable shelter
3. Separate them from aggressive behaviors of each other
4. Allow males and females to mate during mating seasons
5. Not to harvest them for food faster than their ability to breed
6. Not to overburden them
7. Not to neglect them, especially in sickness and advanced age

These Islamic directives came to us over 700 years ago. Similarly, in more modern times, we have what is internationally known as the Five Freedoms outlining five aspects of animal welfare as developed in the United Kingdom in 1965 and formalized in 1979 by the United Kingdom Farm Animal Welfare Council. Subsequently, these Five Freedoms were adopted by internationally prominent animal welfare societies, including the World Organization for Animal Health and the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. The Five Freedoms are:

1. Freedom from hunger or thirst by ready access to fresh water and a diet to maintain full health and vigor
2. Freedom from discomfort by providing an appropriate environment including shelter and a comfortable resting area
3. Freedom from pain, injury or disease by prevention or rapid diagnosis and treatment
4. Freedom to express normal behavior by providing sufficient space, proper facilities and company of the animal's own kind
5. Freedom from fear and distress by ensuring conditions and treatment which avoid mental suffering

When most people in the West hear the term, “animal protection from cruelty,” they may think of domestic pets such as dogs and cats with little to no regard for livestock, birds, and wild animals. It seems that these types of animals are held in less esteem since most of the time we see them not as living, breathing creatures, but as butchered pieces, packaged for sale, or hung up as hunting trophies. In Islam, we are taught that all animals—livestock, birds, pets, and wild—must be treated kindly and respectfully. 

Even the animals we slaughter have rights. It was narrated by Shaddad bin Aws that the Prophet (PBUH) said: “Indeed Allah has decreed Ihsan [responsibility to obtain excellence in worship] in everything. So when you kill, then do the killing well, and when you slaughter, then do the slaughtering well. Let one of you sharpen his blade, and let him comfort his animal (before slaughtering)”–Jami at-Tirmidhi, Vol. 3, Book 14, Hadith 1409

The provisions of respect and anti-cruelty also extend to animals that we do not consume. In some ways, hunting wild animals can be seen as a form of corruption since these animals are not hunted for sustenance, but for amusement and arrogance. It was narrated from Abdullah bin ‘Amr, who attributed it to the Messenger of God (PBUH), who said, “There is no person who kills a small bird or anything larger, for no just reason, but God will ask him about it.” 

The companions then asked, “O Messenger of God, what does ‘just reason’ mean?” He replied, “That you slaughter it and eat it, and do not cut off its head and throw it aside.”–Sunan An-Nasa’i, Chapter 42, Hadith 4450. Indeed, killing an animal for no beneficial reason, or treating them with cruelty is a sin and a violation of their rights. Even birds that are killed unjustly will come beseeching God for justice on the Day of Judgement. It was narrated that Amr bin Sharid heard the Messenger of God (PBUH) say, “Whoever kills a small bird for no reason, it will beseech God on the Day of Resurrection saying: O Lord, so and so killed me for no reason, and he did not kill me for any beneficial purpose.”

Sunan An-Nasa’i, Chapter 42, Hadith 4451.

In another instance, it was narrated that Abdullah bin Ja’far said, “The Messenger of God (PBUH) passed by some people who were shooting arrows at a ram. He denounced that and said: ‘Do not disfigure animals (by using them as targets).’” –Sunan An-Nasa’i, Chapter 42, Hadith 4445. Indeed, cruelty against animals for the purpose of sports and entertainment is forbidden. Islam teaches us to be careful and respectful to our animals. There is a great reward for treating them kindly and great punishment for violating their rights. 

For example, it was narrated from Abu Huraira, that the Prophet (PBUH) said, “A prostitute was forgiven by God, because, passing by a panting dog near a well and seeing that the dog was about to die of thirst, she took off her shoe, and tying it with her head-cover she drew out some water for it. So, God forgave her because of that.” –Sahih al-Bukhari, Vol. 4, Book 54, Hadith 127. Despite her lifestyle, her mercy toward the dog elevated her in the eyes of God, as He rewarded her with forgiveness from her sins.

All living creatures are created to survive and communicate under certain guidelines and ethics; this most prominently includes the wide array of animals who function seamlessly in a circle of life. Before the boom of human civilization, animals and other living habitats did not have to suffer from overfishing, hunting, destruction of habitats, human agriculture, urbanization, and the use of toxins such as pesticides and herbicides. Animal extinction is an unfortunate side effect of our own sprawling existence. Despite all of this, many animals learn to adapt and even thrive.

 By God’s grace and wisdom, He continues to show us our elevated status among living things by having other species adapt to our continuously evolving lifestyles. Therefore, it is our responsibility to return not with arrogance and a sense of superiority, but with compassion and deference to our fellow creatures.

In the end, animal welfare is not only a valid topic of discussion, but a serious issue we must address and ponder within our lifestyles. Just as we are created on this earth to serve a purpose, so have animals, plants, and all other known and unknown living species. We must take our place in this circle of life and try to leave it behind a little better than what we inherit.

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