What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
Childhood forms the canvas upon which our perceptions of divinity and empathy are painted, often guided by influential figures. For me, these figures were my grandfather and elder brother, embodying kindness and reverence for all life. My grandfather’s universal compassion nurtured my belief that every existence holds sacred value. Simultaneously, my brother’s empathy towards injured animals forged a profound connection with the animal kingdom.
However, my upbringing was not devoid of conflict, introducing me to conflicting beliefs regarding pets and religious purity. Our family’s experience with owning a dog, Navy, confronted societal stigmas arising from religious apprehensions. Despite these challenges, my mother’s empathy allowed the Navy into our lives, where his courageous defence from a group of monkeys illuminated her kindness.
There are hadiths (traditions) which say that keeping a dog is allowed only for specific purposes, such as herding, farming, or hunting. Dogs are considered impure, and if one drinks from a vessel, it must be washed seven times, with the eighth using earth. Selling and receiving payment for a dog are forbidden in Islam. Additionally, it is advised not to resemble dogs in posture during prostration. Keeping a dog in the house results in the absence of angelic blessings, as angels do not enter a house with a dog.
Yet, societal norms and ingrained beliefs continued to clash with our affection for dogs. When we shifted to a new neighbourhood, distressing incidents involving street dogs emerged, evoking a mix of anger, sorrow, and disillusionment. Witnessing the cruel treatment inflicted on these once-adored animals was deeply disheartening.
The tragic fate of newborn puppies tossed into a river due to societal inconvenience prompted deep introspection. Questions arose about the paradox between religious teachings and actions—specifically, about the omnipresence of divinity within all creatures. If God resides within every being, how could such cruelty be justified?
Amidst the religious teachings and communal beliefs, Islam’s teachings about animals appeared contradictory. The Quran reveres a dog named Qitmir, emphasizing its significance. However, societal perceptions continued to paint dogs in a negative light, highlighting a profound disconnect between religious teachings and communal actions.
Comparatively, other religions have evolved to advocate for kindness toward animals, addressing contemporary issues like global warming while promoting compassionate behaviour. In contrast, Islamic teachings, although against animal harm, often prioritize reciting Surahs for rewards rather than addressing vital modern concerns.
Recent affirmations by Egypt’s Grand Mufti, Shawky Allam, acknowledging the purity of all living beings, including dogs, stand in stark contrast to the mistreatment often observed within many Muslim communities. This disjunction between religious doctrines and societal actions concerning animal treatment is disconcerting, indicating a lack of evolutionary progress within Islamic teachings concerning animals.
Despite the Quran’s affirmations and evolving religious sentiments globally, there appears to be a reluctance within Islamic communities to extend compassion and respect toward animals. This disparity raises questions about the divergence between religious teachings and communal actions, urging a critical reexamination of Islamic perspectives on animals.
Observing these discrepancies within my Muslim community led to moral dilemmas. Witnessing the compassionate teachings of other religions, I pondered why Islam hadn’t adapted similarly. Such discrepancies raised deep concerns, making me question the prevalent practices and interpretations within my faith.
The incongruity between Islamic teachings and actions witnessed in my surroundings resulted in profound internal conflict. The discrepancy between the Islamic principles advocating kindness to animals and the prevalent mistreatment demanded a deeper examination of religious teachings and their practical applications.
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Reflecting on the disconnect between the profound teachings of Islam and the actions of its adherents regarding animal treatment, I realized the urgent need for religious introspection and evolution. Islam’s teachings about compassion and mercy need to transcend human biases and extend to all living beings, aligning with the essence of the faith’s core values.
This disparity stirred a profound internal debate, encouraging me to contemplate the true essence of Islamic teachings and their interpretation in contemporary society. It fostered a compelling urge for religious authorities and communities to reevaluate their understanding of Islamic teachings concerning animal rights and treatment.
The incongruence between Islam’s teachings and their practice in my community emphasized the urgency for a reexamination of religious interpretations. The disparity between the compassionate essence of Islam and the mistreatment of animals prompted a call for religious leaders to revisit and reframe their understanding of Islamic principles.
Islamic teachings emphasizing mercy, compassion, and stewardship over all creatures should transcend cultural biases and be practised in their true essence. There’s a crucial need to align religious education with modern-day challenges, including environmental issues and animal welfare. Encouraging followers to contemplate the broader implications of these teachings can foster a more compassionate outlook toward animals.
Religious authorities must promote deeper discussions within communities to reconcile the discrepancies between teachings and actions. It’s vital to educate followers about the Islamic tradition’s compassion for all creatures, advocating for respect and kindness towards animals as an integral part of faith practice.
Islamic teachings, inherently compassionate and inclusive, must evolve to address contemporary issues. Encouraging introspection among followers to bridge the gap between religious doctrine and compassionate behaviour toward animals can foster a more harmonious and ethical society.
The journey through personal experiences, societal conflicts, religious teachings, and the disheartening disconnect between beliefs and actions underscores a significant need for harmonizing compassion and religious teachings. My upbringing, guided by the principles of kindness towards animals, contrasts sharply with the prevailing misconceptions and mistreatment witnessed in my Muslim community.
The dichotomy between Islamic teachings advocating compassion and the mistreatment of animals, particularly dogs, reflects a broader societal struggle. While Islam praises the loyalty and significance of animals, societal norms often disregard these principles, perpetuating a cycle of cruelty.
Religious interpretations, especially within Islam, must evolve to bridge the gap between ancient teachings and modern-day ethical considerations. The real essence of Islam lies in the promotion of empathy, mercy, and compassion for all beings. Religious authorities should reexamine and reframe Islamic teachings, aligning them with the essence of kindness and compassion toward animals. This shift would enable a more inclusive and compassionate society, fostering respect for all living beings.
The journey highlighted the need for educational reform within religious communities. Encouraging critical thinking, nurturing empathy, and advocating for a compassionate worldview must be integral to religious teachings. Such an evolution would not only align with the core principles of Islam but also foster a more harmonious, ethical, and compassionate society.
The experiences have amplified the importance of reinterpreting religious teachings to embrace compassion, encouraging a kinder, more empathetic approach toward all living beings, and ultimately nurturing a more inclusive and compassionate society.
