Prophetic Reflections on Nature: Foundations for an Islamic Approach to Ecotherapy

The role of mindfulness towards nature as a tool for mental therapy has gained significant attention in modern psychology, particularly through the development of ecotherapy. While this concept has been largely shaped by Western frameworks, the Islamic tradition has long recognized the importance of reflecting on the natural world through the practice of tafakkur alam (contemplation of nature). Despite its deep roots in Islamic teachings, the therapeutic dimensions of tafakkur remain underexplored, especially through the lens of the hadiths of Prophet Muhammad SAW. Although numerous authentic hadiths encourage reflection on the signs of creation, much of the existing scholarship has focused predominantly on faith-related interpretations, with little attention given to the psychospiritual benefits and therapeutic potentials of such practices. Addressing this gap, the present study examines tafakkur alam as practiced by the Prophet SAW, proposing it as a form of Nabawi ecotherapy. Employing a qualitative content analysis methodology, the study compiles and interprets relevant hadiths using the framework of fiqh al-hadīth. The findings demonstrate that the Prophet’s engagement with nature through tafakkur not only reinforced spiritual faith but also provided a profound therapeutic effect, alleviating anxiety, promoting inner peace, and strengthening the spiritual bond with the Creator. This study advocates for the mainstreaming of a hadith-based approach to tafakkur alam as an Islamic alternative for promoting holistic mental health.