Biomimicry in the context of the Quran and Hadith

Bio-Inspired Inventions:

Some believe that humans are the best creations. However, the Quran mentions, “Indeed, those who believe and do good — they are the best of all beings” (Surah Al-Bayyinah, 7). While human beings have authority over many creations of Allah, some animals are much more intelligent than people realize. As a case in point, a leech has as many as thirty-two brains, and the sperm whale has the largest brain of all animal species. However, the fact remains that the size of the brain or human beings’ physical structure does not make them superior to all creation. As always, when in doubt, we must return to Allah, saying, “And do not walk on the earth arrogantly. Surely you can neither crack the earth nor stretch to the height of the mountains (another creation of Allah)” [Quran 17:37]. The Quran elevates the status of animals in several chapters, as evidenced by the fact that six surahs are named after animals. These include Surah Al-Baqarah (The Cow), Surah Al-Anam (The Cattle), Surah Al-Nahl (The Bees), Surah Al-Naml (The Ants), Surah Al-Ankabut (The Spider), and Surah Al-Fil (The Elephant). The Quran mentions a total of thirty-one animals by name. Several species of animals can use knowledge to solve problems, indicating their intelligence. Shrikes kill their prey by dropping them on thorns and other sharp objects. All species of apes have been observed using tools such as stones, sticks, and twigs. Some monkeys use dropped stones to crack open nuts and crustaceans. Elephants often create and use tools such as fans and switches to ward away flies. Many animal species have created their own pharmacies from ingredients that commonly occur in nature. “All praise is for Allah, to Whom belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth. And praise be to Him in the Hereafter. He is the All-Wise, All-Aware” (Surah Saba, Verse 1). It is nothing short of miraculous that all flying and moving creatures are designed and engineered flawlessly by our creator. Having said that, humans have now copied the ideas of the Creator and created engineering blueprints. It can be inferred that most scientific and technological inventions were inspired by nature and animals’ incredible abilities.

Biomimicry borrows nature’s blueprints and applies this knowledge in many fields such as aerospace and aeronautical engineering, robotics, military science, and technology. Nature is a master of science because most scientists learn from the latent wisdom that is palpably ubiquitous in creation in its entirety. For example, there are many similarities between the human eye and a camera, including a lens that focuses light and creates an image, which is a method of sensing the image. The tenth-century Muslim mathematician, astronomer, and physicist Ibn al-Haitham invented the first pin-hole camera after noticing how light came through a hole in window shutters. Currently, some bio-inspired robots that mimic nature and living creatures include Octobot, Snakebot, Bionic Cobot, and Robotic Bats. Festo has used the elephant trunk to develop a new bionic arm that can aid the handicapped or assist with heavy lifting. Imitation learning (machine learning) is linked to observational and reinforcement learning. Artificial intelligence was inspired by human intelligence, and the human brain is similar to a computer, even though our brain is more energy-efficient than a computer. Spanish aviation enthusiast Oscar Vinals was inspired by the largest mammal on earth and designed the shape of the passenger aircraft concept “AWWA Sky Whale.”

Every sign of creation offers a hint for scholars, thinkers, scientists, and researchers. For example, the dragonfly has a perfectly structured individual system and flawless flying capacity. The unique design of the dragonfly includes individual lenses and four wings that carry its body weight. These large wings produce an airflow “whirlwind.” This knowledge can be applied to the design of aircraft wings. Dragonflies can carry as much as fifteen times their own weight; however, today’s high-performance aircraft cannot lift much more than their own weight. Wise people are those who have not seen their Creator and yet believe in Him by finding evidence of His existence. “Say: Is it that ye deny Him Who created the earth in two days? And do ye join equals with Him? He is the Lord of (all) the Worlds” (Surah Ha-Mim, Verse 9). “It is He who created for you all of that which is on the earth. Then He directed Himself to the heaven, [His being above all creation], and made them seven heavens, and He is Knowing of all things” (Surah Al-Baqarah, Verse 29). All creatures carry signs and proof of the existence of the Creator. Our Creator does not need our worship forcefully. The truth is “the Creator exists” and “no creations deserve worship except the true Creator.” The Quran emphasizes and urges people to use their intellect to find this truth and willingly submit themselves to His commands. “And those to whom knowledge has come to see that the (Revelation) sent down to thee from thy Lord — that is the Truth, and that it guides to the Path of the Exalted (in might), Worthy of all praise” (Surah Saba, Verse 6).

A single verse of the Quran can be applied in many fields of study in different ways. Let us determine how scientists, thinkers, and researchers can adapt Quranic ideas to invent things that provide significant benefits to society and solve 21st-century problems.

Airplanes and Other Flying Vehicles:

There are paths in the sky, and airplanes fly along air routes. 1500 years ago, the Quran mentioned to us, “By the sky, having paths” (Surah Zariyat, Verse 7) and “You will ride layer upon layer” (Quran 84:19). The Quran foretold that man would reach the sky when people in Makkah did not know about aviation. Another verse mentions, “You cannot escape (Allah’s might), on earth or in the sky; and you have no protector and no savior besides Allah” (29:22). Allah asks people of thought, “Do they not see the birds controlled in the atmosphere of the sky? None holds them up except Allah. Indeed, in that are signs for a people who believe” (16:79). This verse inspires researchers and scientists who analyze bird flight, scrutinize birds in wind tunnels, and study flying machines (e.g., aircraft, airplanes).

The Quran allows us to make observations and inspire us to build new technologies and machines in aerospace and aeronautical engineering, mechanical engineering, military technology, and related fields. For example, military scientists and engineers can build robotic wings or aircraft by measuring the activities of a flying bird. Abu Dharr reported, “The Messenger of Allah, peace, and blessings be upon him, left us behind, and no bird flaps with its wings but that he had given us some knowledge about it” (Sahih Ibn Ḥibban).

If we can understand how bird wings work, we can predict drag, lift, noise, structural and thermal loads, and performance in aircraft systems and subsystems. If we look at the birds, we can see that the muscles of the birds flap the wing toward the center, and the bird pushes down on the wing. The wings of the birds are biomechanical check valves. On the upstroke, the wings separate, and the feathers turn so that air flows straight between them. The bird has a lot less resistance on the backstroke than the bird does on the downstroke. During the backstroke, the bird pulls the wing in, and the length and surface area of the total wings are measured. Birds produce high pressure underneath and push themselves up. Bird feathers are lifted on the downstroke. The birds can raise their wings in the same stroke. This observation teaches us about computational fluid dynamics engineering. In an airplane or jet wing, we have a low-pressure situation. A smaller wing loading number means that a plane can fly more slowly while still maintaining lift and maneuverability. Compared with birds, man-made flying machines are poorly maneuverable in some cases.

The albatross rarely flaps its wings to fly and uses the wind to do so. Recently, scientists have been trying to develop fixed-wing, wind-propelled advanced drones that can fly overseas without stopping, taking inspiration from the albatross. NASA partnered with Flexsys and the Air Force Research Laboratory to develop a beating wing with a flapping motion inspired by bird wing movements. Another nature-inspired aircraft concept is RoboSwift, which was inspired by swifts. The little bird can fold its wings back to control its speed and steadiness in the air. In addition, engineers have designed unmanned monitoring devices with cameras that scan the ground and sky by studying how birds hunt for their prey. In these situations, mimicking is a powerful strategy to increase success.

“Do you not see that whatsoever is in the heavens and on the earth, and the birds in flight with wings spread, celebrate the praise of Allah and declare His glory? Each one knows its way of prayer and glorification. And Allah has full knowledge of whatsoever they do.” (24:41) Analysis of the wing morphology and anatomy of birds and insects may provide hints of evolution and the existence of our Intelligent Creator.

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “Whoever takes a path in search of knowledge, Allah will cause him to walk in one of the paths to Paradise. Indeed, the angels will lower their wings in great pleasure with the one who seeks knowledge” (Sunan Abi Dawood). This Hadith seems to be transitioning angels from a high wing to a low wing for knowledge seekers like winged insects or aircraft. The mechanical designs of insect wings inspire many designs for airplanes and aircraft. For high- and low-wing aircraft, major differences occur in the following regimes: lateral stability, aircraft performance, and low-speed handling characteristics. Low-wing aircraft usually have more aerodynamic advantages than high-wing aircraft. The advantage of low-wing aircraft is that they are safer during emergency landings, similar to insects.

Interestingly, an ancient bird-shaped artifact named “The Saqqara Bird” was discovered, proving that the ancient Egyptians had knowledge of aviation design. The Quran proves the scientific knowledge and technological innovations of ancient civilizations and tells the history of Prophet Sulaimon (PBUH). “And for Sulaimon (We subjected) the wind; its journey in the morning was (equal to the journey of) one month, and its journey in the afternoon was (equal to the journey) of another month. And We caused a stream of copper to flow for him…” (Quran 34: 12). Copper is an important metal for making mechanical flights.

Muslims also made a notable contribution to early aviation history. More than 1,000 years before the Wright brothers made their historic flight over Kitty Hawk and 600 years before Leonardo da Vinci sketched out the mechanical flying machine, an Islamic inventor named Abbas in Firnas designed a winged device (mechanical flywheel).

Research and Drone Technology:

Biomimics study nature’s most successful ideas and adapt them for human use. In the Quran, Allah highlights how the small creature “fly” can be powerful: “O people, an example is presented, so listen to it. Indeed, those you invoke besides Allah will never create (as much as) a fly, even if they are gathered together for that purpose. And if the fly steals away from them a [tiny] thing, they could not recover it from him. Weak are the pursuer and pursued” (Quran 22:73). Scientists may discover drones or fly-like speedy vehicles for persistent surveillance by analyzing the frequency of fly wings. Flies have compass neurons in their brains that appear to be related to navigational behavior. Fruit flies use polarized light in the sky to help themselves navigate. Similarly, the compass allows the drone to know its direction in space.

The Quran mentions that if the fly steals away from them a [tiny] thing, they cannot recover it from him. Nowadays, hackers’ flying drones can steal data that is not easy to recover. A fly can lift approximately half its weight, and insect drone models can handle larger payloads. In 2017, scientists observed fruit flies with high-speed cameras to understand how they can replicate their ability to keep afloat after losing a wing to reproduce, which might be applied in drones. Today, smaller and quicker military drones are modeled as insects. Therefore, these drones can be used in extreme wind conditions. Interestingly, the famed aircraft modeler Frank Ehling built fly-powered aircraft. Recently, scientists have built an almost replica of the fly’s hearing mechanism through a tiny silicon device that allows the measurement of the teeter-totter beam’s flexing and rotation. A new fly-inspired technology has been used to build hearing aids with sophisticated microphones that can be used in military applications.

Fruit flies were the first astronaut animals to be sent into outer space. Scientists wanted to explore whether cosmic radiation had any genetic effect on fruit flies. Approximately 75% of the disease-causing genes present in humans are also found in fruit flies.

Researchers at the Royal Veterinary College, University of London, studied the relationship between animal wing shape and aerial performance. The humble fruit fly demonstrates that wing shape is important for improving agility performance.

Scientists at Rutgers University–New Brunswick studied how fruit flies grow their wings, and their findings could help in the diagnosis and treatment of human genetic diseases that lead to abnormal organ shapes. The Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him) said, “If a fly falls into the drink of either of you, he should dunk it all the way in and then remove it, because on one of its wings is disease and on the other is its cure.” [Sahih al-Bukhari] A fly carries the disease (pathogens) and the antidote for those organisms.

Ababil Missile vs. Living Tanks:

In Surah Fil, it is mentioned, “Have you not seen, O Prophet, how your Lord dealt with the Army of the Elephant? For He sent against them flocks of birds that pelted them with stones of baked clay, leaving them like chewed-up straw.” These verses indicate that an army (land forces) with large war vehicles (elephants) can be defeated by a small air force (flocks of birds) if Allah wills. Elephants were the “living” tanks of the ancient world — military units with troops, trained and guided by humans to instill terror in their enemies’ hearts. Mughal war elephants often had weapons attached to their trunks and tusks.

According to the Quran, a flock of small birds (Ababil) appeared and dropped special stones (Sejil/pebbles) upon the army to protect the Kaaba in Mecca, destroying the powerful elephant army of Abraha. During WWII, it was discovered that pigeons had the natural capability to track and detect. Behaviorist B.F. Skinner recruited pigeons to control a guided missile in his “Project Pigeon” and attempted to develop a pigeon-controlled guided bomb. The concept of biomimicry inspires the designs of combat aircraft that can drop missiles like flocks of birds and ground-fighting vehicles like war elephants. However, remember that Islam prohibits harming or killing innocent living creatures without a valid reason.

Submarines:

The fish is mentioned six times in the Quran. Early submarines were inspired by underwater creatures such as whales and eels. The Quran reflects that the Prophet Yunus (PBUH) was thrown into the sea and swallowed by the great fish (whale), and the Prophet was safe inside a huge animal. Allah says, “And indeed, Jonah was among the messengers. When he ran away from the laden ship, he drew lots. He was among the losers. Then the fish swallowed him while he was blameworthy. And had he not been of those who exalt Allah, He would have remained inside its belly until the day they are resurrected. But We threw him onto the open shore while he was ill. And We caused to grow over him a gourd vine. And We sent him to [his people of] a hundred thousand or more. And they believed, so We gave them enjoyment [of life] for a time” (37:139–148). “Then be patient for the decision of your Lord, and be not like the companion of the fish when he called out while he was distressed” (68:48).

Biomimicry can generate solutions to many design challenges. The body design of sea creatures allows them to rapidly travel through water. Sea creatures and sea dwellers inspire marine engineers and naval architects. German scientists modeled their first jet plane after a shark’s efficient body design, allowing it to rapidly travel through water. Sperm whales inspire humans to create deep-diving marine mammal-like defense drone motherships and watercraft (including the form, design concepts, structure, and stability). In addition, whales and dolphins inspire covert underwater communication, which can be used in underwater military vehicle communications. Moreover, scientists discovered an idea for hyper-efficient computer cooling fans by studying the flippers of humpback whales. This whale-inspired rotor blade (wind turbine blade) is more effective than typical fan designs.

Vehicles:

Modern transport and military vehicles are inspired by living carriers. “Then do they not look at the camels — how they are created?” (88:17) Camels are called ships of the desert because they carry very large loads from one side of the desert to the other. Camels are living vehicles that can run at speeds of up to 40 mph. A typical camel can consume up to thirty gallons of water in just thirteen minutes. Camels can go for long periods without water. The humps of camels are used to store fat, which is converted to energy when needed (an emergency food system), whereas four-wheel-drive vehicles store fuel for transporting products and humans. In 1836, U.S. Army LT George H. Crosman mentioned that “For strength in carrying burdens, for patient endurance of labor, and privation of food, water & rest, and in some respects speed also, the camel and dromedary (the Arabian camel) are unrivaled among animals. The ordinary loads for camels are from seven to nine hundred pounds each, and with these, they can travel from thirty to forty miles a day for many days in succession. They will go without water and with little food for six or eight days, or it is said even longer. Their feet are well suited for traversing grassy or sandy plains or rough, rocky hills and paths, and they require no shoeing…” A camel’s toes carry a unique hint of our Creator’s wisdom. Moreover, two-lobed camel toes inspire lunar rover tires that trek over hills of fine-grained, abrasive lunar dust. Allah Almighty supports this animal with characteristics that allow the camel to survive in the desert in unbearable circumstances.

Interestingly, researchers got a hint from camel nostrils and used the camel’s technique to remove salt from saltwater to irrigate plants in the Sahara Desert by using cool groundwater to evaporate warm seawater, which is then condensed in a salt-free form.

Horses and camels are also used in military operations. In the 1920s, horses were replaced by petrol cars or automobiles. According to Nikiforuk (2013), horses are not only “self-feeding, self-controlling, self-maintaining, and self-reproducing, but they are far more economical in terms of the energy they can develop from a given weight of fuel material than any other existing form of motor.” Car fuel contributes to air pollution and negatively affects health, whereas horseback riding is a good aerobic exercise and has a lower environmental impact. “And [Allah created] horses, mules, and donkeys for you to ride and [as] adornment. And He creates that which you do not know” (Quran 16:8). Here “He creates (vehicles) that which you do not know” is a hint of the discovery of future vehicles that were unknown to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) when the verse was revealed to him 1500 years ago.

Crows as Teachers:

The crow is mentioned twice in the Quran. Ravens and crows are intelligent birds that use tools, such as wire hooks. The Quran recounts the story of Adam’s son, Qabil, killing his brother Habil. Then, Allah sent a crow to dig the ground and teach Adam’s son to cover his brother’s corpse. He said, “O woe to me! Have I not been like this crow and buried my brother’s corpse?” And he became regretful. The Quran states: “No animal is walking on the earth nor a bird flying on its two wings, except that they are (part of) communities like you” (6: 38). This story reflects that the crow had a higher intelligence level than the murderer Qabil.

Crows show behavior similar to that of humans toward their deceased loved ones. Similar to other animals, these highly intelligent birds grieve and mourn the loss of friends and family. It also indicates that grief is not a psychological problem. However, unexpected loss of a loved one may increase the risk of depression and other mental health issues. Psychologists and counselors can study birds’ grieving thoughts and behaviors to understand how people recover from grief. Crows gather around the bodies of their dead. Like them, humans also hold funerals for their dead. Funerals provide a support system for the community. Additionally, the Quran mentions the power of patience for recovering from grief. “You shall certainly be tried and tested in your possessions and your lives, and you shall certainly hear much that will grieve you… But if you patiently persevere and be pious, then surely this will be of great resolution” (3:186). Practicing patience will help people dissipate stress and give them a choice about how to respond to frustration.

Nonhuman Informers:

Today, many powerful countries deploy highly trained nonhuman operatives, such as ravens, cats, and pigeons, to spy during war. Previously, birds were employed to communicate messages and deliver services. The Hoopoe was mentioned in the Quran as an informant of Prophet Sulaiman. Prophet Sulaiman (PBUH) was a powerful king whose armies consisted of men, Jinn, and birds. “And [Solomon] reviewed the birds, and he said, ‘Why do I not see the Hoopoe, or is he of those absent? I shall surely punish him severely or slay him, or he must come to me with a clear excuse.’ But [the Hoopoe] was not long in coming, and it said, ‘I have found out what you have not apprehended, and I come to you from Sheba with tidings!’ (27: 20–22).” The bird reported that Sheba was ruled by a powerful and wealthy queen who had a magnificent throne. However, they worshiped the sun rather than the true Creator of the world. This news disturbed Prophet Sulaiman (PBUH). “(Solomon) said, ‘Soon shall we see whether thou (the Hoopoe) has told the truth or lied!’ (Surah Naml: 27) This verse of the Quran indicates that birds can deliver either true or false information. Zoologists discovered that birds lie just like humans, as they lie to ensure their food and might also lie to deceive female birds, thus attracting them. It is important to confirm the reliability of the information.

The Quran mentions “O you who believe! If some transgressor brings you news (that requires acting), verify it carefully (before you believe and act upon it), lest you harm a people in ignorance and then become regretful for what you have done” (49:6). King Sulaiman (PBUH) sent the Hoopoe back to the Queen with a letter inviting her to his kingdom. When the powerful Queen Sheba observed the advanced knowledge and architecture of the kingdom of Prophet Sulaiman (PBUH), granted by Allah, she renounced the worship of the sun and submitted to the true Creator, “Allah.” Nowadays, different nonhuman agents (e.g., robots and apps) replace the living agents used for tracking purposes.

Mosquitoes as Surgical Needles:

Every creation portrays the vast knowledge of Allah. The Quran mentions, “Verily, Allah is not ashamed to set forth a parable even of a mosquito or so much more when it is bigger (or less when it is smaller) than it. And as for those who believe, they know that it is the Truth from their Lord, but as for those who disbelieve, they say, “What did Allah intend by this parable?” By it, He misleads many, and many He guides thereby. And He misleads thereby only those who are Al-Fasiqun (the rebellious, disobedient to Allah)” [2:26]. The mosquito is a unique creation of Allah that uses an X-ray machine-like feature to discern human skin in the dark using a violet light. The mosquito’s body contains a small vaccine that works as a local anesthetic so that the proboscis can be inserted into human skin without causing much pain. Scientists have studied mosquitoes and mimicked their bites to create near-painless surgical needles. Ammar ibn Ali al-Mawsili (c. 1000) invented a hollow hypodermic needle and an injection syringe, and the surgical needle was described by Al-Zahrawi in his Al-Tasrif.

Train Your Dogs and Control Dangerous Animals:

American psychologist B.F. Skinner used dogs in his research experiments to understand the positive and negative effects of reinforcement. Today, this operant conditioning technique is used in classrooms to foster an environment that assists in the development of desirable behaviors.

Dogs used in hunting and warfare have a very long history, dating back to ancient times. The story of the companions of the cave (Aṣḥab Al Kahf) is referred to in the Quran [18:9–26], where some believers who hid in a cave had a companion dog. The Quran encourages you to train your dogs: “Lawful for you are all good things, and [the prey] that trained [hunting] dogs and falcons catch for you” (5:4). Trained dogs are used as scouts, sentries, messengers, trackers, and to assist people with special needs. Adi b. Hatim reported: I said, ‘Messenger of Allah, I set off trained dogs, and they catch for me (the game), and I recite the name of Allah over it,’ whereupon he said: ‘When you set off your trained dogs and you recite the name of Allah (while setting them off), then eat (the game).’ I said: ‘Even if they (the trained dogs) kill that (the game)?’ He (the Holy Prophet) said: ‘Even if these kill, but (on the condition) that no other dog, which you did not set off (along with your dogs), participates (in catching the game).’ I said to him, ‘I will throw Mirad, a heavy featherless blunt arrow, for hunting and killing (the game).’ Immediately, he said, ‘When you throw Mirad, and it pierces, then eat, but if it falls flatly (and beats the game to death), then do not eat that.’

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was known for being compassionate toward every creation of Allah, unless it was harmful or threatening to mankind. According to the teaching of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), it is forbidden to kill any animal except for food or to prevent it from harming people. As a ruler of Madinah, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) has advanced knowledge of local wildlife control and rescue and its relationship to agriculture and public safety. He enforced wildlife control laws and investigated animal cruelty cases. In general, a dangerous dog is one that has inflicted severe injury on a human being or a domestic animal without provocation on public or private property. A hadith mentions Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), classified as a dangerous dog as “…O Abu Zarr, what feature is a black dog that distinguishes it from the red dog and the yellow dog? He said: O, son of my brother, I asked the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) as you are asking me, and he said: The black dog is a Satan (disobedient, harmful, or evil in nature)” (Muslim).Allah’s Messenger (PBUH) ordered us to kill dogs, and we carried out this order so much that we also killed the dog that was coming with a woman from the desert. Then Allah’s Apostle (PBUH) forbade their killing. The Prophet (PBUH) further said: It is your duty to the jet-black (dog) having two spots (between the eyes), for it is a devil (harmful) [Sahih Muslim]. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) ordered the killing of a specific type of dog, which may be harmful to residents and livestock. Moreover, certain fatal diseases (e.g., Rabies) can be transmitted only by a dog bite. However, the Dangerous Dog Provisions Act does not apply to police dogs, guide dogs for the blind, assistant dogs for the handicapped, or farm dogs (under certain circumstances).

An authentic hadith that mentions the killing of the “five serious pests” in both normal lands as well as in the sacred precincts, and they are snake, scorpion, (feral or dangerous) dog, mouse, and kite (a type of bird of prey). These harmful animals might attack people or cause harm to people when they make their homes in places of human habitation. Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) ordered that the salamander (or certain lizard) should be killed and said, “It blew (possibly poison or toxic) on Abraham” [Sahih al-Bukhari]. The Prophet (PBUH) allowed the wazagh (a noxious little creature) to be killed because it was harmful to residents. He also ordered the killing of some dangerous snakes whose bites caused miscarriages in local pregnant women.

A companion of the Prophet (PBUH) was Abu Said al-Khudri who was killed by a snake (jinn). However, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) did not allow the killing of all Jinn (snakes). As a ruler of Medina, Prophet Muhammad modified the undesired behavior of some snakes (jinn) through proper preaching and training. He told of certain snakes (jinn) in Madinah who had embraced Islam (become submissive to local residents). Narrated by Ibn Umar: He heard the Prophet deliver a sermon on the pulpit saying, “Kill snakes and kill Dhu-at-Tufyatain (i.e., a snake with two white lines on its back) and albatross (i.e., a snake with short or mutilated tail) for they destroy the sight of one’s eyes and bring about abortion.” (Abdullah bin ‘Umar further added): Once, while I was chasing a snake to kill it, Abu Lubaba called me saying, “Don’t kill it,” I said. “Allah’s Apostle ordered us to kill snakes.” He said, “But later on, he prohibited the killing of snakes living in the houses.” (Az-Zubri said, “Such snakes are called Al-Awamir.”) In order to control dangerous creatures, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) ordered his companions: “When you see a snake in Madinah, call it out for three days. If that snake appears even after three days of calling, kill it for it is Satan (harmful, dangerous, disobedient, or evil nature).” [Mutawwa Malik]

A hadith mentions that an angel could not enter the house of the Prophet Muhammad’s wife Ayesha (PBUH) because there was a dog inside the house. However, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) did not command his wife to kill that dog. It is possible that angels could not come to his wife Ayesha’s house because it is hard for the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) to concentrate on his visions (communication with an angel) where the dog lives and Allah knows the best! There is a saying that the quality of your sleep is gone if you are sleeping with dogs. Many pet owners say that their dogs disrupt their sleep a few times each night.

‘If you hear the barking of dogs and the braying of donkeys at night, then seek refuge in Allah from the devil (possibly a harmful microspecies) because they see what you do not see.’’ [Ahmad and Abu Dawood]. Dogs have unique night vision and senses that can detect species that are invisible to our naked eyes. They can hear all sorts of things that humans cannot and see objects at a greater distance. However, scientists have developed an artificial dog nose that mimics the active sniffing behavior of dogs and detects trace amounts of explosives.

Islam promotes the domestication of animals for food (sheep, cows, etc.) and working animals (horses, donkeys, camels, farm dogs) rather than keeping dogs as pets inside the home and treating a dog like a human. Dogs are social animals and can experience emotions such as loneliness. Even though dogs are called ‘Man’s Best Friend’, researchers found poorer health among dogs who live in households and better health among dogs who live with other dogs (canine). Treating dogs as human companions can be stressful. Moreover, dogs transmit several diseases to their owners through shared brushes, bedding, and rooms. “He who keeps a dog (inside his house), will lose two Qirat (portions of reward equal in size to a mount) every day out of his rewards.’’ [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

The people with the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “O Messenger of Allah! Is there a reward for us in serving the animals?” The Prophet (PBUH) said, “Yes, there is a reward for serving any animate (living being).” A hadith mentions that a woman with a great sin was once forgiven for giving a drink to a thirsty dog (Sahih Bukhari). This teaching of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is to treat the creations of Allah kindly unless they are harmful and dangerous to us. Muslim Khalif Umar al Khattab, who followed the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), said, “If a dog dies hungry on the banks of the River Euphrates, Umar (the ruler) will be responsible for dereliction of duty.”

Architect spiders:

Spiders are architects who can spin webs stronger than steel using a material known for its strength that can easily hold many times its own weight. Each spider type has its own unique web style that displays marvels of geometric design and a high level of engineering skill. Some spiders can even dive underwater in air-filled diving bells, a feat that they achieved millennia before humans invented submarines in which people are lowered by a cable to study marine life. Spiders have inspired scientists to create space robots. For example, the “Spidernaut” is designed to crawl over the outside of a spacecraft to perform maintenance.

Many innovations are inspired by spiders. For example, researchers took a lesson from spiders and applied a spider-inspired method of spinning to produce soft and recyclable fibers for smart textiles. Another example is the Ornilux Bird Protection Glass, which was developed by a German glass company. This UV-reflective glass ensures bird safety. Researchers in Taiwan designed minuscule lenses for microimaging. Scientists at MIT learned how spider webs absorb water and made a surgical tape inspired by spider webs.

Currenty, military body armor is made from flexible spider silk. Spider silk is a protein-rich silk that can stretch well beyond its original length, be stronger than steel, and stop bullets. Bulletproof spider silk is five times stronger than a strand of steel of the same thickness. The Quran mentions, “The example of those who take allies other than Allah is like that of the spider who takes a home. And indeed, the weakest of homes is the home of the spider if they only knew” (Surah Ankabut, 41). This verse is an excellent example of how our Creator gives us a hint of the strength of the spider web in the eyes of a spider. This verse indicates that people without faith in the Creator believe they have the greatest strength and engineering skills like spiders, but they do not know the weakness of their construction.

Allah designs spiders to spin marvelous structures. Every spider web in the wild became a reminder to return to a unique web shape (e.g., triangles, squares, rectangles, circles). Spider web illustrations open the door to the geometric concepts of similarity and symmetry. The spider web is composed of numerous radii, a logarithmic spiral, and an arithmetic spiral. Spiders teach us how as we use math to explore the creations of Allah, and we’re awed at the Creator’s wisdom. Architects use geometry to study and divide space and to draft detailed building plans. Builders and engineers rely on geometric principles to create structures safely. Some researchers see spiderwebs as smart sensors, some see spiderwebs as quantum gravity models. Important buildings in Islamic architecture include mosques, schools, commercial buildings (e.g., markets), and military fortifications. The Quran mentions: “And indeed, the weakest of homes is the home of the spider, if they only knew,” this verse indicates that if humans apply the unique skills and techniques of spiders and build the strongest architecture, that architecture will not protect them without the mercy of the creator because Allah is the protector of believers.

Ant Colonies and Organizational Strategies: Learning from Nature

The collective behavior of an ant colony is a flexible and highly structured organization. Organizations can draw inspiration from ants on how to work cooperatively and efficiently toward a collective goal. The randomness observed in ants can also be embraced in organizational and business strategies. The Quran states, “Until, when they (Prophet Solomon and his soldiers) came upon the valley of the ants, an ant said, “O ants (wingless female ants), enter your homes so that you do not be crushed by Solomon and his soldiers while they do not feel it” (Quran 27:18). This verse indicates that intelligent ants can sense the magnetic field, and this sixth sense assists them in navigating King Suleiman (PBUH) and his soldiers’ movements. Additionally, it suggests that ants can communicate with each other and experience emotions such as fear. Researchers from the Biocentre of the University of Würzburg have discovered that desert ants use the Earth’s magnetic field as an orientation cue during these calibration trips.

Interestingly, ants can build living body bridges to hunt larger insects, showcasing their teamwork skills. Ants use an algorithm to construct bridges, leveraging their cognitive resources and employing math to find the fastest route. This behavior is driven by their instinct to seek the shortest path over the forest floor to bring home enough food and ensure the future of their colony. Some ants even construct boats out of leaves to efficiently float across the water.

Bees’ Collective Intelligence: Nature’s Inspiration

Bees, intelligent insects equipped with wings capable of generating and detecting electricity, play a vital role in pollination. Flowers undergo a change in their electric charge after a visit from bees, enabling these industrious insects to assess whether a flower is worth investigating by sensing the electric fields. Within a hive, bees exhibit remarkable collective intelligence, automatically discerning tasks that need attention based on their surroundings and the activities of other bees. This ‘swarm logic’ or beehive logic has been adopted by Regen Energy in the US to enhance the efficiency of energy grids. Unlike a traditional organization, a bee colony lacks a queen bee shouting instructions through a megaphone; decisions are made for the greater good of the entire hive.

Businesses can draw lessons from bees’ behavior patterns, employing predictive intelligence to identify customer behaviors or implement effective talent retention strategies. In the field of technology, scientists are developing new navigation systems for drones by mimicking bees’ cognitive processes and flying techniques. Recently, researchers from the University of Granada (UGR) designed an algorithm inspired by the intelligence and social behavior of bee colonies, aiding law enforcement in dismantling criminal social networks.

As mentioned in the Quran (16: 68–69), “And your Lord (Allah) revealed to the bees: Build your hives in mountains, trees, and in what they build.” Bees showcase remarkable engineering in hive construction. They efficiently air-condition their hives using their wings, while their body heat facilitates ventilation through well-designed mound structures. Bees employ a hook and eye system, akin to modern clothing closures, to hold parts of the beehive together. To defend against predators, giant honeybees employ a formidable mechanism, heating their abdomens to over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, honey bees communicate through waggle dances, indicating the location of food sources.

Giant honeybees employ a unique shimmering technique to deter predators. Their ability to see the ultraviolet world has inspired discoveries in human vision, leading to the identification of infrared-sensitive eyes in snakes, polarized light sensitivity in bees, and electrosensitive organs in fish. Bees utilize the sun as a compass for navigational calculations, as mentioned in the Quran: “And your Lord inspired the bee, saying, ‘Take your habitations in the mountains and in the trees and in what they erect. Then, eat of all fruits, and follow the ways of your Lord made easy (for you).’ There comes forth from their bellies a drink of varying color wherein is healing for men. Verily, this is indeed a sign for people who think” [Surah An Naml: 68–69]. Honey, with its complex chemical composition, has been used since ancient times as both food and medicine, offering potential benefits for various health conditions. Studies suggest that honey possesses antidepressant, anticonvulsant, anti-anxiety properties, and has been explored for its potential in treating gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, inflammatory, and neoplastic states.

Nature-Inspired Swarm Intelligence: Lessons from the Quran

The science of swarms proves invaluable in diverse applications, from medical research to military strategies. Advanced software, observation technologies, and statistical methods unravel the mechanics of collective behavior. In the Quran, Allah sent a swarm of locusts as a punishment to the disobedient people of Pharaoh, as stated in the verse: “So, we sent upon them the flood and locusts and lice and frogs and blood as distinct signs, but they were arrogant and were criminal people” (7:133).

In the military domain, swarm robots, inspired by the coordinated movements of insect swarms, are being developed for battlefield applications. Swarm drones, resembling real locust swarms in nature, are mini-drones that collaborate to locate enemies and share resources for decision-making and adaptive flying. These drones, deployable from various platforms such as ships, aircraft, land vehicles, and other military drones, enhance agility and effectiveness on the battlefield.

The Quran underscores swarm intelligence among flying creatures, exemplified by the Ababil, which thwarted a powerful military group led by Abraha attacking the Kaaba. The military context illustrates the Quran’s emphasis on collective behavior and intelligence, promoting unity and cooperation among believers. Surah al-Anfal (8:46) emphasizes obedience to Allah and His messenger, urging believers to avoid disputes and maintain steadfastness for collective strength.

The Quran consistently stresses the importance of unity among believers. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:10), it states, “The believers are but a single brotherhood,” likening the collective power of believers to a strong wall. The hadith further reinforces this concept, stating, “A faithful believer to a faithful believer is like the bricks of a wall, enforcing each other” (Sahih al-Bukhari). The analogy extends to the entire body of believers, as mentioned by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH): “The parable of the believers in their affection, mercy, and compassion for each other is that of a body. When any limb aches, the whole body reacts with sleeplessness and fever” (Sahih Bukhari; Sahih Muslim). These teachings emphasize the strength and resilience that arise from collective unity and cooperation, guiding believers in their actions and relationships.

Animals’ Engineering Skills:

Animals are engineering marvels, displaying high levels of structural and construction engineering skills. For example, bird nests exhibit skills in masonry, weaving, and tunneling, all of which are related to construction sciences like bridges and buildings. Beavers build large dams out of trees and create spacious underground homes with underwater entrances that limit the entrance of invaders. Some water insects manufacture tiny bricks that they use to construct chimney-shaped towers. Weavers employ unique construction techniques, utilizing fine leaf fibers, grass, and twigs to build their nests. Woodpeckers, as ecosystem engineers, construct their nests using their unique skills. Early humans might have built water dams after observing beavers. Silkworms produce a high-quality, strong thread called “silk,” which humans have used for centuries to create fine clothes and expensive scientific instruments.

We can learn from intelligent animals and apply their techniques to solve the complex problems of the world. How do animals learn to properly apply the scientific principles and skills involved in solving their problems? It is Allah who gives knowledge to all His creations, enabling them to survive on the earth, sea, and sky. Surah Ar-Rahman indicates abstract realities functioning around us and invites human intellect to ponder over them, asking, “Which of the powers of your Creator would you deny?” (55:55).

Animal Intelligence:

Intelligence is demonstrated by the extent of complexity living organisms acquire, remember, and act upon information. Animal and bird languages are indicative of intelligence. The Quran states, “Do you not see that Allah is glorified by all those in the heavens and the earth, even the birds as they soar? Each instinctively knows the manner of prayer and glorification. And Allah has perfect knowledge of all they do.” (24:41). This verse suggests that all living creatures worship and glorify the maker of all living creatures in a unique way. The Prophet Muhammad advocated not killing even a frog, stating, “Its croaking is tasbeeh (praising God).” [Sunan Abu Dawud]. Frogs play a crucial role in controlling disease-carrying insects, and their disappearance could increase the threat to humans and livestock, while also serving as an early warning sign for endangered ecosystems (e.g., pollution).

Similar to humans, animals exhibit social intelligence skills. For instance, camel mothers display strong maternal instincts and maintain robust family bonds, communicating through vocalizations and body language. “And there is no creature on (or within) the earth or bird that flies with its wings except (that they are) communities like you. We have not neglected anything in the Register. Then unto their Lord, they will be gathered” [6:38]. All animals evolving in social groups adapt their behavior to the group.

Many intelligent creatures possess survival traits. Wood ants, for instance, collect tree resin to create nests and protect themselves against pathogens. Animals, when feeling unwell, create their own medicines using ingredients or medicinal plants available in nature. Dolphins, for example, use marine invertebrates to treat skin problems. Animals pass on their knowledge to their offspring.

Cows, like other animals, exhibit emotional intelligence. They provide emotional support to one another and offer comfort. Similar to humans, they learn from each other’s mistakes, possess memory and perception, and can remember things for a significant duration. Research has shown that cows can sense stress in other nearby cows and sometimes hold grudges against those that treat them poorly. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) recommended not slaughtering one animal in front of another.

A hadith mentions that the Prophet (PBUH) recognized the distress in an animal and took necessary actions to minimize the psychological stress of the animal. ‘Abdullah reported that the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, stopped in a place, and then someone took a bird’s eggs, causing the bird to beat its wings around the head of the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. He asked, “Which of you has taken its eggs?” A man said, “Messenger of Allah, I have taken its eggs.” The Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said, “Return them out of mercy to the bird.” (Al-Adab Al Mufrad)

Animal Welfare in Islam:

Humans share almost 80% of their genes with cows and 98% of their DNA with pigs and apes. What defines us as “human”? Many animals share common characteristics with us, yet they differ in terms of various forms of intelligence and reasoning abilities. Animals can teach their young to find food, fight over territory, and play with each other. Despite having larger brains than us, Allah grants countless favors to us. While we are not physically designed to fly, we can construct planes. Similarly, we are not biologically designed to live underwater, but we can stay in a submarine. Allah created animals to fulfill multiple needs for humans, such as sheep providing wool and meat. Humans, designed to worship Allah and serve as His authorized representatives, are entrusted with stewardship over the earth and heaven. “The world is beautiful and verdant, and verily God, be He exalted, has made you His stewards in it, and He sees how you acquit yourselves.” [Muslim]

The Quran prohibits any human action causing harm to animals: “Transgress not in the balance, and weigh with justice, and skimp not in the balance … earth, He set it down for all beings” [55:8–10]. Every creation of Allah on our planet is interconnected. Reckless deforestation for agriculture or infrastructure development reduces habitat, leading to disease transmission from animals to humans. Planting trees helps preserve the environment for animals. “If a Muslim plants a tree or sows seeds, and then a bird, or a person or an animal eats from it, it is a charitable gift (sadaqah) for him” [Bukhari]. Ecological imbalance occurs when species disappear or human-caused disturbances disrupt the Earth’s ecosystem. The Quran describes how Allah punished transgressors who killed a she-camel with a natural disaster: “And to the people of Thamud We sent their brother Ṣaliḥ… leave her to graze freely… or else you will be overcome by a painful punishment.” (Quran 7:73)

In Islam, any form of cruelty (e.g., abuse, keeping animals in cages, or having pets for fun) or mistreatment of animals is strictly forbidden. The Prophet (PBUH) advised treating animals humanely: “Verily Allah has enjoined goodness to everything; so, when you kill (animals for eating), kill in a good way and when you slaughter, slaughter in a good way.” [Sahih] The Prophet (PBUH) recognized and acted upon the distress of animals, as narrated in a hadith. Abu Hurairah (RA) reported that the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said: “If somebody keeps a horse in Allah’s cause motivated by his faith in Allah… he will be rewarded on the Day of Resurrection for what the horse has eaten or drunk and for its dung and urine.” (Bukhari)

Fifteen hundred years ago, the teachings of the Quran and Hadith affirmed that animals have emotions, thought processes, and social connections. For example, Prophet Solomon (PBUH) acknowledged the emotions of ants and saved their lives (Quran 27:18). The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) discouraged creating anything resembling living animals due to the potential for increased fears and anxiety. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasized the reward for helping any living creature, equating a good deed to animals with that of humans. “Whoever is merciful even to a sparrow, Allah will be merciful to him on the Day of Judgment.” The Prophet (PBUH) warned against the unjust killing of animals, highlighting the accountability on the Day of Judgment.

To ensure animal safety and welfare and control animal cruelty, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) advocated humane treatment. “A woman entered Hell because of a cat which she tied up and did not feed, nor did she let it loose to feed upon the vermin of the earth” (Narrated by al-Bukhari and Muslim). While the creations of Allah serve the purposes of humans, humans must be careful of the lives of other creations on Earth. “The servants of the Lord of Mercy are those who walk gently upon the earth…” (Quran 25:63). Every animal plays an important role in our planet, and human activities disrupting the natural balance of an ecosystem may lead to disasters. The Prophet (PBUH) teaches, “There is a reward for helping any living creature.” [Bukhari, Muslim] “A good deed done to an animal is as meritorious as a good deed done to a human being, while an act of cruelty to an animal is as bad as an act of cruelty to a human being.” “Whoever is merciful even to a sparrow, Allah will be merciful to him on the Day of Judgment.” The Prophet (PBUH) warned us: “Whoever kills a sparrow or anything bigger than that without a just cause, Allah will hold him accountable on the Day of Judgment.” [An-Nasai]

Abu Hurairah (RA) reported that the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said: “If somebody keeps a horse in Allah’s cause motivated by his faith in Allah and his belief in His promise, then he will be rewarded on the Day of Resurrection for what the horse has eaten or drunk and for its dung and urine.” (Bukhari) Abu Huraira reported: The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “A prostitute had once been forgiven. She passed by a dog panting near a well. Thirst had nearly killed him, so she took off her sock, tied it to her veil, and drew up some water. Allah forgave her for that.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Sahih Muslim) To ensure animal safety and welfare and control animal cruelty, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) advocated that pet owners should not be abusive. “A woman entered Hell because of a cat which she tied up and did not feed, nor did she let it loose to feed upon the vermin of the earth” (Narrated by al-Bukhari and Muslim).

Although the creations of Allah are intended to serve the purposes of the children of Adam, humans should be careful of the lives of other creations on the earth. “The servants of the Lord of Mercy are those who walk gently upon the earth…” (Quran 25:63). Every animal plays an important role on our planet. The view of human supremacy blinds us to the consequences of our actions. We are blameworthy for our self-centeredness and arrogance. Human activities disrupt the natural balance of an ecosystem and cause disasters (e.g., sinkholes) that lead to their own destruction. The Hadith mentions: “While a man was walking, clad in a two-piece garment (out of arrogance) and proud of himself with his hair well-combed, suddenly Allah made him sink into the earth, and he will go on sinking into it until the Day of Resurrection.” (Bukhari) This Hadith indicates that dragging a long royal mantle or dress threatens the lives of tiny creatures. What will happen if the ants become extinct? Ants introduce air into the soil, allowing water and oxygen to reach the roots. If ants went extinct, the food chain would collapse, and life would be destroyed on Earth. “On the Day of Resurrection, the arrogant will be gathered like ants in the form of men. Humiliation will overwhelm them from all sides…” (Narrated by al-Tirmidhi)

Notes:

I am only human, and I make mistakes. Allah possesses complete knowledge. We all can be subject to errors. Similar to Imam Malik bin Anas (A.R), I want to convey to the readers, “Indeed, I am only a human being; I make mistakes in explanation, interpretation, opinions, and writing, and I am correct sometimes. Therefore, look into my opinions: all that agrees with the Book and Sunnah, accept it, and all that does not agree with the Book and the Sunnah, ignore it.” (Jami Bayan Al Ilm Wa Fadhilihi — Ibn Abd Barr vol.1 pg. 775) O Allah, forgive our sins, both unintentional and intentional. “Indeed, Allah forgives all sins. Indeed, it is He who is the Forgiving, the Merciful.” (Quran 39:53)