THE IMPACT OF ISLAMIC TEACHINGS ON FOREST PRESERVATION AND ITS CONTEMPORARY SIGNIFICANCE

Abstract

Deforestation activities especially among the rural communities have continued to generate serious problem to the environment as whole. Recently, before the commencement of the rainy season there was a high increase in temperature in our areas and it has reported that the massive deforestation which are being carried out by in our different communities have contributed immensely to the rising of temperatures in our respective environment. Today governments, institutions, unions and organization are doing the utmost to ensure the protection of forests, but Islam categorically provided the importance of forests and its protection. The research is aimed at discussing the impact of Islamic teachings on forest preservation and its significance in contemporary societies, In doing so the researcher attempt to discuss the significance of forest in the light of Qur’an and Sunnah. The article sheds light on the impact of Islamic teaching in safeguarding the forest, as protection of forest is essential to Islamic beliefs and mankind has the responsibility to ensure the protection and preservation of forest. The method applied in carrying out the research is by consulting books of Ahadith as well verses of the Glorious Qur’an which indicates the importance for the preservation of forest. A number of measures were recommended for maintaining as well as protection of the plant and trees, which includes strict adherences to the teachings of the Quran and Sunnah of the Noble Prophet (PBUH) on the preservation of forest must be maintained, as well enactment of laws that would deter deforestations needs to be implemented in our respective court of laws, and punishment for the violators must be meted severely in the presence of public to serve as the deterrent to others.