In a hadith narrated by Abu Daoud, Ahmad, and Muslim, the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ encountered a camel that was groaning and shedding tears. He approached it, patted it, and asked about its owner, saying: « Do you not fear Allah regarding this animal which Allah has placed in your possession? It is complaining to me that you starve it and put it to toil. » This powerful scene reorients our understanding of animals in Islam: they are not mere objects, but creatures with feelings, entrusted to our care, and their well-being is a matter of moral and spiritual accountability.
What Does the Quran Say About Animals?
The Quran acknowledges animals as communities like our own, and their creation is a sign of Allah’s wisdom. While the Quran primarily addresses human obligations, it establishes principles of mercy and justice that extend to all creation. For instance, the Quran states that animals are lawful for food, but with conditions that emphasize mindfulness of Allah. In Surah Al-Maaida, verse 1, we read: « O ye who believe! fulfil (all) obligations. Lawful unto you (for food) are all four-footed animals, with the exceptions named: But animals of the chase are forbidden while ye are in the sacred precincts or in pilgrim garb: for Allah doth command according to His will and plan. » This verse ties the permissibility of consuming animals to the broader concept of fulfilling obligations, reminding us that our relationship with animals is regulated by divine command.
Animals as Signs of Allah
The Quran repeatedly points to animals as signs of Allah’s power and mercy. For example, in Surah An-Nahl, the bee is mentioned as inspired by Allah to build hives and produce honey, a healing for mankind. Though not in the provided passages, scholars often reflect on such verses to highlight the intrinsic value of animals. Our provided texts, however, focus on the ethical treatment of animals, which is the core of this article.
The Principle of Lawful Food
The Quran specifies what is forbidden for consumption, as in Surah Al-Baqara, verse 173: « He hath only forbidden you dead meat, and blood, and the flesh of swine, and that on which any other name hath been invoked besides that of Allah. But if one is forced by necessity, without wilful disobedience, nor transgressing due limits,- then is he guiltless. For Allah is Oft-forgiving Most Merciful. » This verse shows that even dietary laws are framed with mercy, and the exception of necessity underscores the principle of compassion.
How Did the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ Treat Animals?
The Prophet’s ﷺ life is a living example of compassion for animals. The hadith about the camel is just one instance. Another hadith, narrated by Abu Daoud and Ahmad, reports that the Prophet ﷺ passed by a camel whose stomach had become so thin it touched its back, and he said: « Fear Allah regarding these dumb animals. Ride them when they are fit (for riding), and eat them when they are fit (for eating). » This instruction is a comprehensive guideline: animals are not to be overburdened or underfed. They have rights that we must respect.
Kindness in Slaughter
The Prophet ﷺ emphasized kindness even in the act of slaughter. In a hadith narrated by Muslim, he said: « Verily, Allah has enjoined kindness in all things. So, when you kill, kill with kindness; and when you slaughter, slaughter with kindness. Let one of you sharpen his blade and spare the animal he slaughters from suffering. » This teaching is unique in its insistence on minimizing pain, even at the moment of death.
Prohibition of Using Animals as Targets
The Prophet ﷺ explicitly forbade using live animals as targets for shooting or practice. In a hadith narrated by Bukhari and Muslim, Anas reported: « The Messenger of Allah (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) forbade using (live) animals as targets. » This prohibition reflects a deep respect for animal life, which must never be trivialized.
What Are the Rights of Animals in Islamic Law?
Islamic law, derived from the Quran and Sunnah, grants animals specific rights. These include the right to proper food, water, and rest; the right to be treated with kindness; and the right not to be subjected to unnecessary suffering. The hadith of the camel illustrates the right to be fed adequately: the camel complained to the Prophet ﷺ about being starved and overworked. This establishes that neglecting an animal’s basic needs is a sin.
The Right to Comfort
The Sunnah even prescribes the method of slaughter that minimizes pain. In a hadith narrated by Bukhari and Muslim, Ibn ‘Umar advised: « Slaughter it while it is standing with one leg tied up, as this is the Sunnah of Muhammad (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him). » This method allows the animal to remain calm and avoids unnecessary distress.
The Right to Life
While animals may be killed for food or self-defense, killing them without justification is forbidden. The Prophet ﷺ forbade killing animals by tying them up and using them as targets, as reported by Jabir in a hadith narrated by Muslim: « The Messenger of Allah (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) forbade killing an animal by tying it up and taking aim at it. » This shows that animals are not to be subjected to cruel sport.
Why Is Compassion for Animals a Spiritual Practice?
In Islam, how we treat animals reflects our spiritual state. The Quran says in Surah Al-Hajj, verse 37: « It is not their meat nor their blood, that reaches Allah: it is your piety that reaches Him: He has thus made them subject to you, that ye may glorify Allah for His Guidance to you and proclaim the good news to all who do right. » This verse clarifies that the purpose of animal sacrifice is not the act itself but the piety behind it. Similarly, our treatment of animals in daily life is a manifestation of our taqwa (God-consciousness).
Mercy as a Reflection of Faith
The Prophet ﷺ said, as narrated in a hadith not in our provided passages, that mercy is not removed except from the miserable. However, our provided hadiths emphasize that Allah has enjoined kindness in all things. In a hadith narrated by Muslim, Shaddad ibn Aws reported: « Indeed, Allah is benevolent and He loves benevolence to everything. So, if you kill, kill benevolently, and if you slaughter, slaughter benevolently. Let one of you sharpen his blade and relieve his animal of suffering. » This benevolence is a form of worship.
The Story of the Woman and the Cat
A sobering reminder of the consequences of cruelty is the hadith narrated by Bukhari and Muslim: « A woman was tormented because of a cat which she had kept locked up until it died, and she was thrown into Hell for that. She neither gave it food or drink when she locked it up nor freed it so that it would eat from the vermin of the earth. » This hadith shows that neglect and cruelty to animals can lead to severe punishment, highlighting the gravity of our responsibility.
How Can We Apply These Teachings in Daily Life?
Applying Islamic teachings on animal welfare involves practical steps. First, ensure that any animals in our care have adequate food, water, and shelter. Second, when slaughtering for food, follow the Sunnah: use a sharp blade, perform the slaughter quickly, and avoid causing unnecessary fear. Third, avoid using animals for entertainment or as targets. Finally, consider the environmental impact of our choices, as Islam encourages moderation.
Caring for Pets
For those who keep pets, the hadith of the cat serves as a warning. Provide proper nutrition, veterinary care, and a safe environment. The Prophet ﷺ himself showed kindness to animals, and we should follow his example.
Ethical Consumption
When buying meat, choose sources that practice humane slaughter and animal welfare. The Quran reminds us in Surah Al-Hajj, verse 36: « The sacrificial camels we have made for you as among the symbols from Allah: in them is (much) good for you: then pronounce the name of Allah over them as they line up (for sacrifice): when they are down on their sides (after slaughter), eat ye thereof, and feed such as (beg not but) live in contentment, and such as beg with due humility: thus have We made animals subject to you, that ye may be grateful. » This verse emphasizes gratitude and sharing, reminding us of the broader ethical context.
What Does Islamic History Teach Us About Animal Welfare?
Islamic history is replete with examples of animal welfare. Caliphs and scholars established public water fountains for animals and birds. The concept of animal rights in Islam predates modern animal welfare movements. The Quranic principle of not overburdening animals is echoed in the hadith: « Ride them when they are fit (for riding), and eat them when they are fit (for eating). » This historical legacy is a challenge for contemporary Muslims to revive.
The Legacy of the Prophet’s Companions
Companions like Ibn ‘Umar were known for their kindness to animals. The hadith about slaughtering while standing with one leg tied up shows the care taken to minimize suffering. This legacy continues to inspire Muslims today.
Lessons for Modern Society
In an age of industrial farming and animal exploitation, Islamic teachings offer a counter-narrative of mercy and balance. By revisiting these principles, Muslims can lead in ethical treatment of animals, setting an example for others. The Quranic guidance in Surah Al-An’aam, verse 142, says: « Of the cattle are some for burden and some for meat: eat what Allah hath provided for you, and follow not the footsteps of Satan: for he is to you and avowed enemy. » This verse reminds us to use animals for their intended purposes without excess.
Frequently Asked Questions About Animals in Islam
Is it permissible to keep pets in Islam?
Yes, keeping pets is permissible, but with responsibilities. The hadith about the woman and the cat warns against neglect. Ensure the animal is fed, watered, and not harmed.
What is the Islamic method of slaughtering animals?
The Islamic method, based on the Sunnah, involves using a sharp blade, cutting the throat to sever the windpipe and blood vessels, and pronouncing the name of Allah. The goal is to minimize pain, as emphasized in hadiths and.
Can animals be used for entertainment in Islam?
No, using animals for entertainment, such as making them fight or using them as targets, is prohibited. The Prophet ﷺ forbade using live animals as targets and killing them by tying them up.
What should I do if I see an animal being mistreated?
Muslims are encouraged to intervene and prevent cruelty. The Prophet ﷺ confronted the owner of the camel who was starving it. You can speak up, report to authorities, or offer help.
Are there rewards for showing kindness to animals?
Yes, kindness to animals is a form of charity. While specific hadiths about rewards are not in our provided passages, the general principle is that Allah rewards all good deeds, and the hadith about the cat shows that cruelty is punished, implying kindness is rewarded.
What does the Quran say about hunting animals?
The Quran permits hunting for food but forbids it during the sacred pilgrimage. In Surah Al-Maaida, verse 95, it says: « O ye who believe! Kill not game while in the sacred precincts or in pilgrim garb. » This shows the balance between use and conservation.
Compassion for animals is not an optional extra in Islam; it is a fundamental expression of our faith. From the Quranic verses that regulate our interaction with animals to the prophetic example of mercy, the message is clear: animals are entrusted to us, and we will be held accountable. Let us strive to embody this compassion in our daily lives, remembering the hadith: « Fear Allah regarding these dumb animals. » May our treatment of Allah’s creatures be a reflection of our love for Him. For more guidance on Islamic practices and tools, explore the Al Muslim Plus app and website.
Sources vérifiées
Citations recoupées mot pour mot avec le corpus canonique (Coran / hadiths).
- Sourate Al-Maaida, verset 1
- Sourate Al-Baqara, verset 173
- Sourate Al-Hajj, verset 37
- Sourate Al-Hajj, verset 36
- Sourate Al-Maaida, verset 95
- Sourate Al-An’aam, verset 142
- Hadith n°8842 (Narrated by Abu Daoud – Narrated by Ahmad – Narrated by Muslim) — grade : Authentic hadith
- Hadith n°4319 (Narrated by Muslim) — grade : Authentic hadith
- Hadith n°6326 (‘Abdur-Razzaaq – Narrated by Muslim) — grade : Authentic hadith
- Hadith n°64656 (Narrated by Muslim) — grade : Authentic hadith
- Hadith n°8890 (Narrated by Bukhari & Muslim) — grade : Authentic hadith
- Hadith n°58193 (Narrated by Bukhari & Muslim) — grade : Authentic hadith
- Hadith n°3464 (Narrated by Bukhari & Muslim) — grade : Authentic hadith
- Hadith n°5935 (Narrated by Abu Daoud – Narrated by Ahmad) — grade : Authentic hadith