In Islam, planting a tree is a profound act of faith, charity, and hope, revered as sadaqah jariyah—a continuous charity that yields rewards long after one’s lifetime. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized this through timeless teachings, yet many Muslims today, knowingly or unknowingly, contribute to deforestation while neglecting this simple, rewarding act. It’s time to reconnect with this Sunnah and take action for a greener future.

Prophetic Teachings on Tree Plantation

The Sunnah offers clear guidance on environmental stewardship. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “If a Muslim plants a tree or sows seeds, and then a bird, a person, or an animal eats from it, it is regarded as a charitable gift (sadaqah) for him” (Sahih Muslim, Book 20, Hadith 1552). This hadith illustrates how a single tree, providing food, shade, or oxygen, becomes a source of ongoing blessings.

Similarly, another hadith reinforces this: “There is none amongst the Muslims who plants a tree or sows seeds, and then a bird, or a person, or an animal eats from it, but is regarded as having given a charitable gift for which he will be rewarded” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Book 41, Hadith 2320). These words highlight the far-reaching impact of planting.

Most strikingly, the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “If the Hour (Day of Judgment) is about to be established and one of you has a sapling in his hand, then let him plant it if he is able to do so before the Hour is established” (Sunan al-Tirmidhi, Book 36, Hadith 2541). This powerful teaching underscores that planting a tree is so virtuous that it remains meaningful even at the world’s end, symbolizing hope and responsibility.

The Deforestation Challenge

Despite these teachings, deforestation is a global crisis, and Muslims are not immune to its causes. Direct actions like illegal logging or indirect ones, such as supporting industries that destroy forests, contribute to environmental harm. Alarmingly, many Muslims may not plant even a single tree in a year, missing an accessible act of worship that aligns with Islamic values.

This gap arises from various factors: lack of awareness, economic pressures, or a disconnect between faith and environmental responsibility. Urbanization and modern lifestyles have further distanced communities from nature. However, Islam’s concept of khilafah (stewardship) reminds us that protecting the earth is a sacred duty.

A Path Forward

The Prophetic guidance offers a clear solution. Here are practical steps Muslims can take:

1. Plant Regularly: Commit to planting at least one tree annually, choosing native species that support local ecosystems.
2. Join Reforestation Efforts: Volunteer with or donate to organizations restoring forests, especially in deforested regions.
3. Spread Awareness: Mosques and scholars can highlight tree planting as an act of worship in sermons and community programs.
4. Make Sustainable Choices: Opt for eco-friendly products and advocate for policies that protect forests, reducing indirect harm.
5. Educate Future Generations: Teach children about the Islamic value of environmental care, encouraging them to plant and nurture trees.

A Greener Tomorrow

If every Muslim planted just one tree a month, the impact would be monumental. With over 1.9 billion Muslims globally, this act could restore ecosystems, combat climate change, and revive a cherished Sunnah. By embracing tree planting as an expression of faith, Muslims can honor the Creator while safeguarding His creation.

News Today India calls on its readers to act. Let’s plant trees, not just for today, but as a legacy of faith, inspired by the Prophet’s words to plant even at the Hour’s approach.