Islamic Ethics of Water Conservation and Its Application at the Household Level: An Analytical Study of Shakardara, District Kohat

Abstract

In the context of the current global water crisis and climate change, Pakistan particularly the semi-arid region of Shakardarra, District Kohat—is facing a severe challenge of water scarcity and the alarming depletion of groundwater resources. This study critically examines the household-level application of Islamic ethics for water conservation within the local, rain-fed, and religious socio-cultural context of Shakardarra. The primary objective of this research is to demonstrate that, alongside modern technological approaches, Water Demand Management can be achieved more effectively through Islamic ethical values and principles. The study employs a qualitative and comparative research methodology, analyzing the Qur'anic concepts of Amanah (Environmental Stewardship), Khilafah (Vicegerency), and Mizan (Ecological Balance), as well as the Prophetic prohibition of extravagance (Israf), in comparison with contemporary scientific water management policies. The findings indicate that viewing water not merely as an economic commodity but as a religious and moral trust can bring about sustainable and positive behavioral change at the community level. Furthermore, the study concludes that integrating the role of mosque pulpits, women's household education, and local Jirga institutions can significantly contribute to achieving sustainable water conservation goals in Shakardarra.

Keywords: Water Conservation; Islamic Ethics; Environmental Stewardship; Water Demand Management; Behavioral Change; Shakardarra, Kohat.

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.21796172