Gharebaghi R, Mahdavi MRV, Ghasemi H, Dibaei A, Heidary F. Animal rights in Islam. AATEX 2008;14(Special Issue):61-63


Abstract

Several years has elapsed since the societal recognition of the issue that not only people should enjoy several rights but also all parts of nature should have relevant rights. New legislation enacted in many countries and regions of the world during the 1980s requires that laboratory animal use be reduced, refined and replaced wherever possible, for ethical and scientific reasons, in line with the 3Rs concept put forward by W.M.S. Russell and R.L. Bnurch. The scientists worldwide begin to recognize the importance of 3Rs in the biomedical education as a social concern for laboratory animal's welfare rises. However, the Quran, the holy book of Islam, as well as Hadiths contain the obligatory ways to keep and treat animals since more than 1400 years ago.

According to Islamic principles, humanity is not allowed to do everything to the living things and must only take their lives if necessary. Furthermore, there are Islamic restrictions on manipulating animals, such as limited hours of work. Hunting of young birds for pleasure is forbidden by Islam. From the Islamic viewpoint, animals represent Allah's might and wisdom, and humanity must pay attention to their health and living conditions. Several Islamic manuscripts state that animals have their own position in the creation hierarchy and humans are responsible for the facilities and animals at their disposal, including animals' health and feed. Islam determines the living costs of animals and orders humanity to respect and not to abuse them. This paper reviews historically animals' rights in Islam.
 



Author's contacts: drgharebaghi@yahoo.com

Author's keywords: animal, right, islam, Quran, Hadith

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Link to journal: AATEX - Alternatives to Animal Testing and Experimentation