Environment in Islamic discourse: a corpus-assisted content analysis approach

Abstract

This proposed study aims to examine the discourse related to the environment within the Islamic tradition. Employing a qualitative research approach, the investigation utilizes content analysis to scrutinize sacred sources and selected videos featuring influential shaykhs advocating for environmental conservation and echo-jihad. The theoretical framework of the study is eclectic and it is based on corpus linguistics, discourse analysis, and maqasid al-Sharath. The data collection process involves a systematic selection of sacred sources (i.e., the Nobel Qur'an and the Noble Hadith), coupled with corpus-assisted qualitative content analysis. Such methodology will enable us to identify key themes, concepts, and principles associated with environmental preservation in the Islamic tradition. The analysis of sacred sources offers insights into the theological and ethical foundations underpinning the advocacy for environmental stewardship in Islamic discourse. Moreover, the study involves the selection and thematic analysis of audio-visual discourse featuring well-known Islamic scholars and shaykhs with a view to examining how contemporary Islamic scholars articulate environmental concerns and the recently-coined concept of ‘echo-jihad’. The thematic analysis of this speech corpus deals with the narratives, arguments, and strategies adopted by the shaykhs to raise awareness about environmental issues. Moreover, it examines the ways in which they establish connections between environmental preservation and broader Islamic teachings and concepts. The findings of this study contribute to the growing field of Islamic environmentalism and echo-Jihad. Moreover, the findings and recommendations of the study may address the escalating environmental challenges globally, with a specific focus on those faced by Arab and African countries, such as the incidents at Beirut Harbor, the Safer Oil tanker in the Red Sea, random destructive fishing especially in conflicted areas like Somalia and Yemen, global warming, and related concerns.