WEEK 2

Reflection: SCSH 1201 Week 2 – Islam, Maqasid al-Shariah & Sustainable Development

What I learned:
This week’s topic deepened my understanding of how Islam inherently promotes sustainability. I learned that Islam’s view of development is not solely material or economic but also deeply spiritual and ethical. The principles of Tawhid and Khilafah form the basis for human responsibility towards the Earth, aligning well with the modern concept of sustainable development. Islam teaches that we must balance social justice, environmental protection, and economic fairness—principles rooted in the Qur’an and Sunnah.

Why I learned it:
This knowledge is essential because as Muslims and future leaders, we are called to be stewards of the Earth (Khalifah). Understanding that sustainability is a religious obligation helps me see that our faith supports global efforts like the UN Sustainable Development Goals. It also prepares me to think about development not just through a secular lens, but one that includes my Islamic identity.

How I learned it:
I learned this by examining the three dimensions of sustainability through an Islamic framework—social, environmental, and economic—and understanding how Islamic principles like Mizan (balance), Amanah (trust), and Zakat (almsgiving) directly contribute to these areas. The comparison between the 5Ps of the SDGs and Islamic values was especially helpful in linking global and religious goals.



What this means to me:
This lesson made me realize that living sustainably is not just a modern necessity, but a timeless Islamic duty. It inspires me to reflect on my personal habits—how I consume, spend, and care for the environment. More importantly, it encourages me to pursue projects or careers that align with both sustainability and Islamic ethics. As a law student, this motivates me to advocate for policies rooted in justice, equity, and compassion.

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