Sdgs In Islamic Perspective.docx

Development becomes sustainable from the Islamic perspective when it is observant of equilibrium (mizan), moderation (wasatiyyah), and considerations of social equity. Mizan and wasatiyyah expound the two dimensions of the divinely-ordained balance in creation. Mizan is mainly concerned with the celestial universe and the place of planet earth in the grand scheme of creation, whereas wasatiyyah teaches moderation in all aspects of human conduct. Violation of mizan and extremism in human conduct amount to what the Qur’an describes in so many places as fasad (corruption and decay). It is caused by human aberrations and indulgence in extremism, including the sustained destruction of the earth’s ecosystems, causing disturbances in the predicament of the earth itself, or senseless bloodshed and brutalities. All these are symptomatic of fasad striking its roots among human individuals and societies. Sustainable development under such conditions can at best be partial and deficient. Whereas some countries and communities are better placed and able to protect themselves from the vagaries of human transgression and fasad, the vast majority are unable to do so.