Critical Comparison of the Concept of Hablum Minal Alam and Arne Naess’s Deep Ecology within the Framework of Environmental Ethics

Abstrak

This study conducts a critical-comparative analysis of the Islamic environmental ethics concept hablum minal ‘alam and Arne Naess’s deep ecology within the framework of contemporary environmental discourse. Recognizing that modern ecological crises are not merely the result of technical and economic factors but stem from an anthropocentric paradigm that reduces nature to an object of exploitation, this research explores how these two frameworks offer alternative ontological and ethical foundations for human–nature relations. Employing a qualitative research approach through a normative–philosophical library study, this paper examines primary Islamic sources (the Qur’an, Hadith, and both classical and contemporary fiqh al-bi’ah literature) and major deep ecology texts, particularly Naess’s formulations of biospheric egalitarianism and self-realization. The analysis reveals that hablum minal ‘alam is rooted in a theocentric monotheistic worldview, positioning humans as khalifah (stewards) entrusted with maintaining cosmic balance, while deep ecology emphasizes an ecocentric perspective that recognizes the intrinsic value of all living beings beyond their instrumental utility. Despite fundamental metaphysical differences, both frameworks converge in rejecting exploitative attitudes and affirming moral responsibility, self-restraint, and respect for ecological integrity. The study concludes that a critical dialogue between hablum minal ‘alam and deep ecology could reinforce ethical commitment and socio-religious legitimacy for environmental movements—especially in Muslim societies—by framing ecological concern as both a spiritual duty and a moral imperative for global environmental sustainability.