Islam calls us to waste less
“Live a sustainable life and be stewards on the earth that you live on.”
Because people forget and are shaped by their surroundings, Islam calls them to remember their accountability by living simply, sustainably, gratefully, and responsibly as stewards of the earth.
The khutbah in 7 steps
- Human beings forget and are influenced by their companions, so they need regular reminders and truthful company.
- Earth Day frames an Islamic reminder that the earth is a trust and humans are its stewards.
- Canadian food, water, garbage, and recycling statistics expose everyday waste and extravagance.
- Prophetic examples emphasize cleaning public spaces and conserving water, even during wudu.
- The three S’s, simple, sustainable, and stewardship, offer practical principles for daily life.
- Gratitude involves recognizing blessings, expressing thanks, and using blessings lawfully and beneficially.
- The khutbah closes by calling for contentment, reduced consumerism, and responsibility toward creation, family, and community.
In the khateeb's words
“this is what the Prophet taught us: be grateful for what you have, be mindful of how you're using it, and do not waste.”
“the three S's are live a simple life. Live a sustainable life and be stewards on the earth that you live on.”
“every single thing that we have, we are going to be asked about it.”
“a rich person is not a person who has a lot of wealth. The rich person is that person who has a rich heart, who has a contentment in his heart.”
For the dinner table
The khutbah reminds us that people are forgetful and influenced by the people around them, so we need regular reminders. Earth Day becomes an opportunity to remember that Allah has entrusted us with the earth and will ask how we used its blessings. The speaker points to food waste, water use, litter, and consumerism as areas where small changes matter. He encourages us to live simply, choose sustainable habits, and act as responsible stewards. Gratitude means recognizing our blessings, thanking Allah and people, and using what we have in good and responsible ways.
- Where did we notice waste today, and what could we do differently next time?
- Which of the three S’s could our family practice this week?
- What is one blessing you are thankful for, and how can you show that gratitude?
More on Civic engagement
If you don't utilize your vote, you have no power.13:23MIC · Malden, MA · Oct 24, 2026Voting is an amanah for justice
CLIC · Clear Lake, TX · Oct 31, 2026Vote patiently for justice and less harm
The only way to change policies is through elections, through voting.24:31Medical Center Islamic · Houston, TX · Oct 30, 2026Voting helps protect religious freedom