Ramadan is a time of reflection, gratitude, and giving. It is a month where we strive to strengthen our connection with Allah SWT through prayer, fasting, and acts of charity. One of the key lessons of Ramadan is recognising the blessings we have been given and ensuring we use them responsibly.
Among these blessings is the clothing we wear, often taken for granted but deeply tied to the values of stewardship, ethical responsibility, and sustainability in Islam. As part of our role in worshipping Allah (SWT) is to cultivate this earth responsibly and with compassion.
Islamic Teachings on Avoiding Waste
As Muslims, we are called to be caretakers of the earth (khulafa), using its resources wisely and avoiding extravagance. Being a Khalifa or trustee requires humans to act with responsibility, care and compassion. Allah (SWT) warns against wastefulness:
“Indeed, the wasteful are brothers of the devils, and ever has Satan been to his Lord ungrateful.” (Surah Al-Isra 17:27)
Islam encourages values of justice and accountability, governing the relationship between Muslims and earthly resources. These resources have been gifted to us to manage and preserve. We are encouraged to use worldly resources to benefit future generations without depleting them. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also emphasised the importance of mindful consumption, saying:
“The world is sweet and verdant and Allah SWT has made you stewards over it. Be mindful how you treat this world and its creatures”
Indeed, fasting during the month of Ramadan is a means of cultivating self-restraint. This enables us to moderate our actions, control our desires, and reduce our consumption. Strengthening this spiritual willpower is essential.
The Blessing of Clothing in Islam
Clothing is more than just fabric; it is a provision from Allah to cover ourselves with dignity and comfort. The Quran reminds us of this gift:
“O children of Adam! We have provided for you clothing to cover your nakedness and as an adornment. However, the best clothing is righteousness. This is one of Allah’s bounties, so perhaps you will be mindful” (Surah Al-A’raf 7:26)
This verse highlights that clothing is a necessity and a sign of Allah’s generosity. However, in today’s world of overconsumption and fast fashion, we often forget this blessing and fall into habits of excess and waste.
Recycling and its Blessings – Giving Clothes a Second Life
One way to embody Islamic values of gratitude, generosity and sustainability is by extending the life of our clothing. Instead of discarding garments we no longer wear, we can recycle our blessings by donating unwanted modest clothing by repurposing or reselling them.
1. Donate to Those in Need
Ramadan is the perfect time to donate to those in need and practice generosity. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“The best of you are those who feed others and return greetings.” (Sunan Abu Dawood 2346)
Charity is not limited to food—it also includes clothing. Many people struggle to afford proper attire, and your donations can restore dignity to them.
2. Pass It On Through Ethical Resale
Supporting ethical fashion by buying and selling preloved clothing aligns with Islam’s sustainability concept. Purchasing second-hand items reduces waste and extends the lifecycle of garments, ensuring they fulfil their purpose without being discarded prematurely.
3. Upcycle, Recycle and Repurpose
If an item is not suitable for donation, consider repurposing it. For example, you could turn old garments into prayer mats, quilts, or reusable bags. Islam encourages ingenuity and resourcefulness, and repurposing items helps reduce environmental harm. If they are beyond use, then take them to a fabric recycling bank.
A Sustainable Ramadan and Beyond
As we seek spiritual purification this Ramadan, let us cleanse our hearts from wastefulness and ingratitude. By recycling our blessings, be it clothing, food, or resources, we live in harmony with Islamic teachings of stewardship and compassion. Let us make a commitment to mindful consumption and responsible giving, ensuring our actions reflect the principles of Islam not just in Ramadan, but throughout the year.
May Allah grant us the wisdom to be ethical stewards of His creation and the generosity to share our blessings with others. Ameen.