ASSESSMENT OF VARIOUS DIMENSIONS OF SUSTAINABILITY: AN ANALYSIS OF DIFFERENT FACETS OF SUSTAINABILITY FROM ISLAMIC PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

The paper assesses the major dimensions of sustainability by discussing the various facets of sustainability from an Islamic perspective to present a fresh approach regarding the concept and understanding of sustainability as a field of study. The four dimensions of sustainability, including human, social, economic, and environmental sustainability, are discussed in both Islamic and contemporary perspectives. The paper entails a qualitative research approach by taking into consideration the already available literature regarding sustainability and its various dimensions by examining these facets of sustainability in the light of Islamic sources of the Quran and Sunnah (actions and sayings) of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessing be upon him). The references are drawn from contemporary literature as well as from primary Islamic sources to clarify the sustainability aspects and present a religious perspective on sustainability processes and practices. The religious viewpoint on sustainability is based on the premise that Islam, being a complete code/framework to lead human life, encompasses all matters humans face or may face in their lives till the end of this world, and therefore, Islam also indirectly guides towards different aspects of sustainability to urge and motivate all human being in general and its followers in particular, to lead lives in such a way that warrants a sustainable world for everyone. The Islamic theory, as contained in its two primary sources of the Quran and Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him), offers direction to ensure a sustainable life and a successful after-life provided the teachings and guidelines of Islam are followed in letter and spirit. There has been very limited research on the facets of sustainability from an Islamic standpoint, and this paper endeavors to address this research gap by elucidating the various dimensions of sustainability in the context of Islamic theory.