Ma`rifat Akhlaqi

Environmental degradation is among the most critical challenges of the modern era. A primary cause can be traced to humanity's estrangement and disconnect from a monotheistic worldview and the absence of a sacred relationship with nature. This research aims to elucidate the foundations and objectives of environmental education according to the thought of three contemporary Islamic thinkers: Ayatollah Abdullah Javadi Amoli, the Supreme Leader, and Seyyed Hossein Nasr. Employing a descriptive-analytical method, the study is based on content analysis of the works and statements of these thinkers. The findings indicate that all three thinkers, drawing upon religious teachings, consider environmental education to encompass individual, social, and governmental dimensions. They emphasize the institutionalization of a culture of environmental protection and the reinforcement of an ethical, spiritual, and theological perspective toward nature. The results, derived from their viewpoints, suggest that overcoming environmental crises is contingent upon reforming humanity's attitude toward nature and the environment, reviving spiritual and ethical education, recognizing humanity's status as the divine vicegerent on Earth, and establishing a connection between spirituality, sacred knowledge, religious ethics, and social responsibility toward the environment. This approach can lay the groundwork for sustainable development aligned with human perfection.