ACJU/NGS/2022/058
2022.03.22 (1443.08.18)
Islam emphasizes the need to conserve water resources. The Qur’an mentions about this resource as follows: “And We sent down water from the sky in due measure, then We lodged it in the earth, and of course, We are able to take it away.” [23:18]
Giving water to another living being is considered a great charity in Islam. The Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu Alaihiwasallam) said “the best charity is to give water to drink.” [An-Nasai, Abu Dawood, Ibnu Majah].
We must not forget that water is essential to our lives. We do not tend to think or realize how much water we waste every day. Also we must not forget those in need, who are suffering without water.
Islam condemns wasting water while performing Wuhu (Ablution) and urinating in running water. It was narrated from Abdullah bin Amr (Raliyallahu Anhu) that: “The Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu Alaihiwasallam) passed by Sa’d (Raliyallahu Anhu) when he was performing ablution, and he (Sallallahu Alaihiwasallam) said: ‘What is this extravagance?’ He said: ‘Can there be any extravagance in ablution?’ He (Sallallahu Alaihiwasallam) said: ‘Yes, even if you are on the bank of a flowing river.'” [Ibnu Majah]
The Qur’an warns that Almighty Allah does not like those who waste. “O children of ‘Adam, take on your adornment at every mosque. Eat and drink and do not be extravagant. Surely, He does not like the extravagant.” [7:31]
World Water Day is commemorated on March 22 every year. It raises awareness of the plight of the billions of people who are currently living without access to water.
The simple act of giving water to a living being is greatly beneficial in Islam. Therefore, Islam considers giving a person access to water as a good deed (Sadaqa Jariya) that is beneficial even after one’s death. We can also make such contributions by donating to irrigation or water supply projects. Even if a bird drinks this water, the donor will benefit from it.
May Almighty Allah bless us to utilize water in useful manner without wastage and make our contribution towards preserving it.
Ash-Shaikh M. Arkam Nooramith
General Secretary – ACJU
