ISLAM AND ECOLOGY: ENVIRONMENTAL THEME IN THE TAFSIR AL-QUR’AN TEMATIK [THEMATIC EXEGESIS OF THE QUR’AN] OF THE INDONESIAN MINISTRY OF RELIGIOUS AFFAIRS

Abstract

 Environmental damage remains one of the most pressing global challenges in which Indonesia
is facing floods, droughts, deforestation, and biodiversity loss. Beyond scientific and policybased solutions, religious and ethical perspectives are essential to strengthen ecological
awareness. This paper examines the Tafsir al-Qur’an Tematik [Thematic Interpretation of the
Qur’an] published by the Ministry of Religious Affairs, specifically the volume on Pelestarian
Lingkungan Hidup (Environmental Conservation), to explore its contribution to environmental
discourse. Employing textual analysis and participatory observation, given the author’s direct
involvement in the writing, compilation and peer-review process, the study reveals how the
exegesis conceptualizes human beings as khalīfah (stewards) mandated to preserve the earth.
Qur’anic terms such as jibāl (mountains), al-baḥr (seas), riyāḥ (winds), and fasād (corruption)
are contextualized within ecological functions and the risks of human exploitation. The findings
show that this exegesis not only provides theological justification for environmental protection
but also inspires eco-pesantren initiatives, academic works, and grassroots movements in
Indonesia. The study concludes that thematic exegesis offers a transformative religious
framework that complements global sustainability efforts by integrating Qur’anic principles
with contemporary ecological concerns.