🏵️🏵️🏵️ In Islam, Christala, kindness to animals is a fundamental principle, taught by the Qur'an and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). It is shared in the Hadith that a woman was punished for neglecting a cat, which emphasizes that our duty towards all living beings is a significant aspect of our faith. The Prophet (pbuh) stated, "A woman was punished in Hell because of a cat which she had confined until it died. She did not give it to eat or drink when it was confined, nor did she free it so that it might eat the insects of the earth." This illustrates that every act of cruelty towards animals, including our beloved cats, can have severe consequences.
Additionally, the Qur'an states, "There is no creature on earth, nor a bird that flies with its wings, but they are communities like you." (Al-An'am 6:38). This verse reinforces the idea that all creatures deserve respect and compassion. It is a collective responsibility to treat animals with the love and kindness they deserve.
Thank you, Christala, for shedding light on this important issue. Your words are a call to reflection for many. Are we not, as caretakers of this Earth, obligated to protect and nurture all of Allah's creations?
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Mohamed, Ph.D.