Abstract
In this paper, I have identified and briefly examined two Islamic concepts which constitute the nucleus of the conceptual framework for sustainability in Islamic architecture. The two concepts are: 1) man as the vicegerent (khalifah) on earth, and 2) the natural environment as both a field and means for man’s vicegerencymission. Central to the paper are the following themes: 1) the meaning and significance of Islamic architecture; 2) the position and role of man on earth; 3)peaceful and accountable (sustainable) coexistence with the environment; and 4) the implications of the Islamic concepts of man and the environment orsustainability in Islamic architecture. The paper aims to increase awareness, both of the professionals and general public, as to the importance of the theme ofsustainability in Islamic architecture by expounding the core of the conceptual basis for the same. The paper presents some general principles and ideas aroundwhich a comprehensive theory on sustainability in Islamic architecture, in line with the requirements of the Islamic worldview while fully conforming to thedictates of different circumstances, environments and cultures, can be developed today. The nature of the paper: its content, methodology and conclusions, is aconceptual and philosophical rather than an empirical one. The paper concludes that Islamic architecture, through its multidimensionality embodies the message of Islam. It both facilitates the Muslims’ realization of the Islamic purpose and its divine principles on earth and promotes a lifestyle generated by such a philosophy and principles. At the core of Islamic architecture lies function with all of its dimensions: corporeal, cerebral and spiritual. The role of the form is animportant one too, but only inasmuch as it supplements and enhances function. Indeed, one of the most recognizable features of Islamic architecture must always be sustainability.
Highlights
What is Islamic Architecture?The primary characteristic of Islamic architecture is one whose function and form are inspired by the religion of Islam
Islamic architecture is a framework for the implementation of Islam
Together with the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), whose primary task was to explain to mankind and put into practice the precepts of Islam, are universal and timeless
Summary
The primary characteristic of Islamic architecture is one whose function and form are inspired by the religion of Islam. Islamic architecture represents the religion of Islam that has been translated onto reality at the hands of Muslims. It represents the identity of Islamic culture and civilization. Islamic architecture promotes unity in diversity, the unity of message and purpose, and this too thorough a variation of styles, methods and solutions This renders Islamic architecture as relevant and dynamic, and consistent and adaptable. Islamic architecture was never an end in itself It was the container of Islamic culture and civilization reflecting the cultural identity and the level of the Muslims’ creative and aesthetic consciousness. The same author further remarked: If one were to reply to the question ‘what is Islam?’ by pointing to one of the masterpieces of Islamic art such as, for example, the Mosque of Cordova, or that of Ibn Tulun in Cairo, or one of the madrasahs in Samarqand....that reply, summary as it is, would be valid, for the art of Islam expresses what its name indicates, and it does so without ambiguity.v
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