Don’t Waste Water Even If You were at a Running Stream

Dr. Razi-ul-Islam Nadvi, Secretary Tasneefi Academy, while addressing the weekly meet organised by Jamaat-e-Islami Hind at its headquarters on 7 May, highlighted the availability of guidance on water management in Islam and underlined the role of the government and the people in proper utilisation of water, its use and misuse and the challenges ahead.
According to Dr. Nadvi, water is not only a basic need but also basic component of our life. Like all other creations, the Almighty has created water in abundance so much so that 70 per cent of our land is covered with water. It is just to fulfil the requirements of man and all other living beings. If it is used judiciously and as per the teachings of the Qur’ān and Hadīth, there will be no scarcity of water in any part of the world. Water crisis is not only a national issue but across the globe in varying degree and magnitude. And it is so alarming that that many believe that if there is going to be another world war it will be fought for water.
He also informed the audience that, like all other gifts from the Almighty, water is also an important gift to the entire mankind and living beings and all must be thankful for the precious treasures Allah has provided us with. The whole world is confronted with two types of problems related to water and it is either unavailability of water in the required amount or the water available is impure and unfit to be used.
While referring to the Islamic Guidance, the learned speaker said the Qur’ān and Hadith mention the importance of water, its availability, its use and misuse and consequences thereof. The Qur’ān also mentions the available sources of water like lakes, ponds, rivers, seas and all other sources. Apart from availability, the level of water is also important because even if there is plenty of water and the level is very deep, it may not be that useful.
The Qur’ān has also emphasised the availability of water in the desired amount for livings beings and has reminded them to be thankful therefor. Offering water to others in need and digging wells and bore wells is considered everlasting good deeds.
The learned speaker also questioned the Government’s failure in providing water and containing wastage of water. Dams, rivers and canals and many other sources of water are going dry and nobody is bothered about it. The government has so far failed to provide immediate relief in various parts of India, not to say of any long-term solution.
“Remember, on one occasion, Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be to him) said: Do not waste water even if you were at a running stream. Even for ritual ablution water must not be used in plenty but only in the desired amount as per the guidance of Islam,” said Dr. Nadvi.