As global animal abuse statistics shock the conscience, Quranic verses and Prophetic traditions offer a moral blueprint for mercy—if only humanity would listen
Islam, a religion of mercy and compassion, emphasises the importance of treating all living beings with kindness and respect. The Quran and Hadith provide guidance on animal welfare, highlighting the need to care for and protect animals. However, animal abuse remains a pressing concern worldwide.
Islamic Teachings on Animal Welfare
The Quran underscores the significance of animal welfare in several verses. For instance:
– “And cattle He has created for you (men); from them ye derive warmth and numerous benefits, and of their (meat) ye eat.” (Surah An-Nahl 16:5)
– “And they carry your heavy loads to lands that ye could not (otherwise) reach except with souls distressed: for your Lord is indeed Most Kind, Most Merciful.” (Surah An-Nahl 16:7)
– “And (He has created) horses, mules, and donkeys, for you to ride and as an adornment; And He has created other things of which ye have no knowledge.” (Surah An-Nahl 16:8)
– “We have made animals subject to you, that ye may be grateful.” (Surah Al-Haj 22:36)
– “There is not a moving (living) creature on earth, nor a bird that flies with its two wings, but are communities like you. We have neglected nothing in the Book, then unto their Lord they (all) shall be gathered.” (Surah Al-Anam 6:38)
The Prophet (PBUH’s) Example
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) exemplified compassion towards animals, demonstrating the importance of kindness and mercy. He said: – “There is a reward (ajr) for helping any living creature” (Hadith: Bukhari and Muslim).
– The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) condemned the beating of animals and forbade striking, branding, or marking them on the face.
– He cursed and chastised those who mistreated animals and gave praise to those who showed kindness.
The Disturbing Reality of Animal Abuse
Despite Islamic teachings on animal welfare, animal abuse persists globally. Some alarming statistics include:
– Approximately one animal faces abuse every minute in the United States.
– An estimated 10 million animals die from abuse or cruelty annually in the United States.
– Over 110 million animals are killed in U.S. laboratories each year for experiments.
– Animal hoarding affects around 250,000 animals annually in the United States.
– Nearly 400,000 dogs that enter shelters across the country are euthanised annually.
Animal Abuse in Various Settings
– Zoos: Only about 2,800 animal exhibitors in the U.S. have United States Department of Agriculture licenses, with fewer than 10% accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA).
– Circuses: Animal neglect and abuse occur in circuses, where trainers use tools like electric prods, bullhooks, and whipsticks to force animals to perform.
– Laboratories: Millions of animals are subjected to experiments, including chemical, cosmetic, food, and drug testing, in U.S. laboratories each year.
– Shelters: The United States has around 4,000 brick-and-mortar animal shelters, with varying intake and transfer rates.
The Importance of Reporting Animal Abuse
Reporting animal abuse is crucial to preventing further harm and ensuring justice for animals. Unfortunately, less than 0.01% of cases are reported annually, highlighting the need for increased awareness and action.
Creating a Compassionate World
By understanding Islamic teachings on animal welfare and the reality of animal abuse, we can work towards creating a more compassionate world. We can make a difference by:
– Reporting animal abuse and neglect
– Supporting organisations that promote animal welfare
– Advocating for animal welfare policies and laws
– Treating animals with kindness, respect, and compassion
Together, we can foster a world where animals are valued and protected, reflecting the mercy and compassion emphasised in Islam.
The writer is a BVSc & AH student at Shuhama, SKUAST-K
Sahil Majeed
sa************@***il.com