The Times of India | March 22, 2025
Water is the foundation of life, an essential element without which existence would be impossible. It constitutes a significant portion of all living beings, with approximately 70% of the human body composed of water. Beyond its biological necessity, water is deeply embedded in spiritual, ethical, and environmental discourses across cultures and religions. Despite its natural abundance, the world faces an unprecedented water scarcity crisis. Climate change and irresponsible consumption patterns have pushed many regions into severe water stress, making access to potable water a critical challenge.
In Islamic thought, water is central, symbolising divine mercy, purity, and sustenance. The Quran frequently emphasises water’s spiritual and existential significance. It describes water as a gift from the Divine, essential for sustenance of all life forms. One of its verses highlights this profound truth: We have made every living thing out of water, (Quran 21:30).
This verse serves as both a scientific assertion and a spiritual reflection, urging humanity to recognise water not merely as a physical necessity but as a sign of divine providence. It reinforces the idea that life, in its very essence, is intricately connected to water. Thus, its conservation is not just an environmental obligation but a moral and spiritual responsibility.
The Prophetic traditions further reinforce this message, highlighting the importance of water conservation and mindful consumption. Prophet Muhammad emphasised: “Do not waste water, even if you are by a flowing river, Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith No 425.” This underscores an ethical principle of sustainability, advocating for restraint even in abundance. This teaching holds significant relevance in an age of water crises, where excessive consumption has led to depleting resources and environmental degradation.
Water is more than a resource; it is a medium of compassion and shared humanity. The Hadith offers a striking example of this virtue: “While a man was walking, he became thirsty. He went to a well and drank from it. Afterwards, he noticed a dog sniffing at the sand due to thirst. The man thought, ‘This dog is suffering as I did,’ so he filled his shoe with water and offered it to the dog. In His mercy, Allah forgave the man’s sins for this single act of kindness.” Upon hearing this, the Prophet’s companions asked, “Are we also rewarded for kindness to animals.” He replied: “There is a reward for kindness to every living thing, Sahih Al-Bukhari, Hadith No 2466.”
In this context, water becomes a symbol of mercy and interconnectedness. Denying it to others – whether human, animal, or plant – is to act against the spirit of justice and kindness.
The depletion of groundwater, contamination of freshwater sources, and melting of glaciers are stark reminders that irresponsible water usage has long-term consequences. If this crisis is not addressed with urgency and wisdom, future generations will bear the brunt of ecological collapse.
The Quranic and prophetic teachings on water conservation, moderation, and environmental stewardship emphasise timeless guidance for sustainable living. Recognising water as a sacred trust compels us to adopt responsible habits – reducing waste, preventing pollution, and ensuring equitable access.
As individuals, communities, and nations, our relationship with water must be redefined – not as an unlimited resource but as a fragile blessing.
