The Islamic Perspective on Animal Welfare with a Focus on Birds

Image source

*Heri Tarmizi

Regarding captivity, Islam teaches that birds should not be kept in cages in a manner that deprives them of their natural freedom and ability to fly.

Islam places significant emphasis on animal welfare, advocating for the compassionate and ethical treatment of animals. This principle extends to all living creatures, including birds. The teachings of the Quran and Hadith provide clear guidance on how Muslims should interact with animals, emphasizing kindness, respect, and care. This essay explores the Islamic perspective on animal welfare, particularly concerning birds, drawing on Quranic verses, Hadith, and relevant scholarly sources.

 Quranic Teachings on Animal Welfare

The Quran, Islam's holy book, contains numerous references that highlight the importance of treating animals with compassion and respect. Animals, including birds, are considered communities (umam) like humans, as stated in Surah Al-An'am (6:38):

 "There is no animal on the earth, nor a bird that flies with its wings, but they are communities like you. We have not neglected anything in the Book, then unto their Lord they will be gathered."

This verse underscores the significance of animals in the Islamic worldview, acknowledging their intrinsic value and their right to live in a manner that aligns with their natural instincts and needs.

Hadith on Animal Welfare

The Hadith, which are the sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad (*PBUH), further elaborate on the principles of animal welfare. One notable Hadith emphasizes the importance of kindness to animals:

"A good deed done to an animal is as meritorious as a good deed done to a human being, while an act of cruelty to an animal is as bad as an act of cruelty to a human being." (Mishkat al-Masabih)

This Hadith clearly establishes that animals are deserving of humane treatment and that acts of cruelty towards them are severely condemned in Islam.

The Prohibition of Bird Consumption and Captivity

Islamic teachings also address specific issues related to the consumption and captivity of birds. Certain birds are explicitly forbidden for consumption, as outlined in the Hadith. For example, the Prophet Muhammad (*PBUH) forbade the eating of birds with talons, such as eagles and hawks, as well as birds that prey on other animals. This prohibition is rooted in the principle of avoiding harm to creatures that play crucial roles in maintaining ecological balance.

Regarding captivity, Islam teaches that birds should not be kept in cages in a manner that deprives them of their natural freedom and ability to fly. Birds are meant to soar in the skies, engage in their natural behaviors, and live according to their instincts. The confinement of birds in cages without necessity is considered contrary to the principles of animal welfare in Islam.

The Ethical Treatment of Animals in Islam

The ethical treatment of animals, including birds, is a comprehensive aspect of Islamic teachings. The Quran and Hadith provide guidelines on how Muslims should interact with animals, ensuring their welfare and humane treatment. For example, Surah An-Nahl (16:5-8) emphasizes the importance of animals as part of God's creation and their role in human life:

"And the cattle, He has created them for you; in them there is warmth and numerous benefits, and of them you eat. And there is beauty in them for you when you bring them home and when you take them out to pasture. And they carry your loads to a land you could not reach except with difficulty to yourselves. Indeed, your Lord is Kind and Merciful."

This verse highlights the utilitarian and aesthetic value of animals, stressing the need for their respectful and ethical treatment.

Modern Interpretations and Scholarly Perspectives

Contemporary Islamic scholars and organizations continue to emphasize the importance of animal welfare. They advocate for the humane treatment of animals in various contexts, including agriculture, research, and domestic settings. Dr. Khaled Abou El Fadl, a prominent Islamic scholar, argues that the ethical treatment of animals is a reflection of one's faith and moral integrity.

Moreover, organizations such as the Islamic Foundation for Ecology and Environmental Sciences (IFEES) work to promote awareness and implementation of Islamic environmental ethics, including animal welfare. IFEES emphasizes that caring for animals is an integral part of Islamic stewardship (khilafah) of the Earth.

Practical Applications and Legal Frameworks

Islamic teachings on animal welfare are not merely theoretical but have practical implications and legal frameworks. In many Muslim-majority countries, animal welfare laws are influenced by Islamic principles. For instance, the prevention of cruelty to animals is enshrined in the legal systems of countries such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

Additionally, Islamic dietary laws (halal) require that animals be treated humanely during slaughter. The principles of halal slaughter include minimizing the animal's suffering, ensuring a swift and painless death, and invoking God's name during the process. This practice reflects the broader Islamic commitment to ethical treatment of animals.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Islam places a strong emphasis on animal welfare, advocating for the compassionate and ethical treatment of all creatures, including birds. The Quran and Hadith provide clear guidelines on how Muslims should interact with animals, emphasizing kindness, respect, and care. These teachings are reflected in contemporary Islamic scholarship and practice, highlighting the enduring relevance of animal welfare in Islam. By adhering to these principles, Muslims can fulfill their religious duty to protect and care for God's creation, ensuring the well-being of animals and maintaining ecological balance.

References

- The Quran

- Mishkat al-Masabih

- Dr. Khaled Abou El Fadl, "Islam and the Ethics of Animal Welfare"

- Islamic Foundation for Ecology and Environmental Sciences (IFEES)

- Surah Al-An'am (6:38)

- Surah An-Nahl (16:5-8)

*(PBUH = Peace be upon him)

By integrating these teachings into daily practices and legal frameworks, Muslims can contribute to a more compassionate and ethical world for all living beings.