Desk Report:
Our beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was not only a mercy for mankind, but for the entire creation. Allah Almighty says in the Holy Quran, ‘We have not sent you except as a mercy to the worlds.’ (Surah Al-Anbiya: 107). His kindness and compassion were all-encompassing. Humans, animals, and even plants were not deprived of his affection. Just as he himself was kind to animals, he encouraged his companions to be considerate of the animal kingdom.
In the example of the Prophet (PBUH), taking care of animals, ensuring their food and drink, and not causing them unnecessary suffering are very important. He strictly prohibited killing animals unnecessarily, putting excessive burdens on them, or torturing them for one’s own pleasure. He would feel pained and protested against injustice done to any animal. The silent suffering of animals deeply moved his heart.
In a hadith, Sahl ibn Hanzaliyyah (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) was deeply distressed when he saw a starving camel. Seeing the camel’s weakness, he said, “Fear Allah for these speechless animals. Ride on the backs of healthy animals and feed them well.” (Sunan Abu Dawud: 2548).
This incident shows how much he felt for the suffering of animals.
In another famous hadith, Ibn Mas’ud (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that during a journey, they took a baby bird and the mother bird became restless and started flying above their heads. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) immediately asked, “Who has taken away the baby and caused it pain? Give it back to it.” (Sunan Abu Dawud: 5356). This incident shows how sensitive the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) was towards animals and how much importance he attached to protecting their rights. His kindness and compassion towards the living world is a unique example for humanity.
