Bediüzzaman Said Nursi (1876-1960) and Islamic Eco-Theological Ethics

Abstract

The present paper attempts to show how Bediüzzaman Said Nursi sees the environment in light of the Qur’anic understanding of the metaphysical world; why his thinking about nature is significant for Islamic environmental ethics; and how his suggestions for balancing human life in relation to other creatures of God can result in ecological equilibrium. The paper argues a rereading of Nursi from an ecological perspective is essential for addressing the present unprecedented environmental crisis. By reviewing his arguments and suggestions critically, the article will evaluate Nursi as an Islamic eco-theological ethicist. Furthermore, by correlating Nursi’s understanding with various environmental issues and extrapolating his prescriptions for minimizing the ecological crisis, the paper contributes to the present discussions on Islam and environmental ethics.

Key-Words: Animal, Ecology, Ethics, Environment, God, Human Responsibility, Nature, Universe.