FRIDAY KHUTBA OF TOKYO CAMİİ “SENSE OF RESPONSIBILITY TOWARD NATURAL DISASTERS“

Dear Muslims!
We as humans are created within and in need of an environment. For us, environment means life; it means the color, harmony, health, and unity of life. The universe is a work of the Almighty Allah, which He (SWT) has entrusted to humans. For this reason, we as the most honorable caliph on earth are obligated to protect all humans and all created beings, alive or inanimate, and treat them with compassion and mercy. When we fulfill this responsibility of ours, we become more prosperous along with our environment. Otherwise, it is not only the heavens and earth that will be harmed but also all of us and our future will be harmed as well.

Dear Believers!
We can mitigate the loss of life and property in the face of disasters, such as floods, landslides, fires, earthquakes, droughts, and pandemic diseases, only by taking necessary precautions and measures. This is because natural phenomena occur according to the Sunnah of Allah, that is the divine laws and order, in a cause and effect relationship. Therefore, Muslims must not neglect their responsibilities and openly allow for anything that might lead to disasters. They must not take any step to disturb the natural balances on earth. The majority of the bitter results of disasters are due mostly to our own mistakes and neglects. The Holy Qur’an explains it in this way: “Corruption has appeared throughout the land and sea by [reason of] what the hands of people have earned.”^[i]

Dear Believers!
The Prophet Muhammad (saw) states in one hadith as follows, “Be wary of your responsibilities toward Allah wherever you are!”^[ii]Then, let us be aware of the responsibilities incumbent upon us. Let us all get prepared against natural disasters for a safe and secure life.

^[i] Rum, 30/41.
[ii] Tirmidhi, Birr, 55.