Arab and Islamic Geographical Thought: A Comprehensive Analytical Reading in the Context of Current Environmental Challenges

Abstract

This study presents an expanded analytical reading of Arab-Islamic geographical thought by examining the methodological foundations and environmental perspectives found in the works of three prominent Muslim geographers: al-Idrisi, al-Mas‘udi, and al-Maqdisi. The research adopts a descriptive–analytical and comparative approach to explore how classical geographical texts can contribute to understanding contemporary environmental challenges.

The findings reveal that the concepts of stewardship (istikhlāf), balance (mīzān), and cultivation (ʿimārah) constitute an integrated epistemological and ethical framework capable of interpreting modern environmental issues such as climate change, desertification, water scarcity, and unplanned urban expansion. The analysis further shows that al-Idrisi laid early foundations for regional geography through his correlation of climate and natural resources; al-Mas‘udi offered advanced explanations of environmental dynamics and natural phenomena; and al-Maqdisi provided an early urban-environmental perspective linking settlement patterns with ecological conditions.

The study concludes that Arab-Islamic geographical heritage holds significant potential for application within modern environmental policy—particularly in water management, combating land degradation, sustainable urban planning, and environmental ethics. It recommends integrating this intellectual heritage into contemporary curricula and sustainability programs due to its scientific and ethical value in supporting environmental decision-making.