oa Muslim-Christian Trusteeship of the Earth: What Jesus Can Contribute

The call for a global ethic to tackle environmental and social injustice is being responded to by Muslims and Christians alike. The concept of ‘human trusteeship’ of creation belongs to both Muslim and Christian traditions, and is central to this response. In this paper I outline and explore this shared concept as: the faithful and sustainable management of earth’s resources and social solidarity that mandates social justice. I also argue that none of this would be possible without societal stability, which necessitates ‘peacebuilding’. For Muslims there is a renewed interest in the principles and purpose of the Shari’a—guidelines for comportment based on the Quran and prophetic sayings (hadith)—towards a renewed concept of trusteeship of the earth. Whilst in the Christian tradition, Jesus’ lessons of ‘transforming initiatives,’ are a source of inspiration in tackling the threats of global warming and human conflict. Having written about Muslim-Christian trusteeship in great detail, highlighting Muslim resources in particular, here I would like to highlight a new angle in the contribution of Jesus, or ‘Isa bin Maryam’ (the son of Mary). I conclude by stating that Jesus’ teaching and example can be powerful tools in the hands of both Muslims and Christians, encouraging them to forge ahead in caring for the planet and one another in the name of their Creator.