In Islam, the Qur'an and Hadith give clear guidance on several matters concerning animals, aside from their treatment and roles. Another issue which is carefully described in the Qur'an and Hadith is the slaughter of animals for food. In Islam, one must follow strict guidelines from the Qur'an and Hadith on the process and proper way of slaughter.
The manner in which Muslims slaughter animals for food is important to discuss here because the slaughter of an animal is to be done with the least pain possible for the animal, and in the name of God. The allowance of human beings to slaughter certain animals for food is one ordained by God and comes with strict rules regarding the careful procedure. When a Muslim slaughters an animal for food, it is done in the quickest and most painless way for the animal. The animal is placed in a comfortable position facing Qibla (the direction of prayer). When a Muslim makes his intention to slaughter an animal he must utter the name of Allah or say ``Bismillah Allahu akbar' (in the name of God, God is great). The slaughtering is to be done by cutting the throat of the animal with a sharp object. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: ``If the blood is drained (from the animal) and the name of Allah has been mentioned over it, you may eat of it.' (Reported by al-Bukhari and others) When an animal is slaughtered by a Muslim following the correct procedure, the meat is considered ``halal' which means with God's blessings. ``And do not eat of that over which the name of Allah has not been mentioned, for truly that is impiety....' (6:121)
The religion of Islam provides mankind with many answers and guidance on all issues, and the humane treatment of animals is certainly not one to be taken lightly by believing Muslims. The large number of animal rights and protective organizations found throughout the world could in general be seen as a signifier of man's ultimate realization of his place in the world. Perhaps it is man's way of preserving a part of creation that should be left free of the corruptions of mankind. Whatever the case, animals are beautiful creations from God and should be treated as such. As Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said ``Whoever is kind to the creatures of God is kind to himself."
The above was a very brief discussion on Islam's views on the treatment of animals. For a more in depth discussion on several topics concerning animals in Islam, visit Muslims Against Cruelty to Animals.
