To watch the news these days concerning Islam and the Muslim community in general, the media would have us believe that its adherents are all violent extremists, and that kindness and compassion are a million miles away from the Muslim world, this is definately not the case. The spirit behind this very ancient faith has many facets of goodness that gleam forth, and which some hard working Islamic scholars are highlighting and are trying to make known to people.  If you make a short study of the Koran it is sobering to find that within its pages it becomes apparent that this religion is renowned for its endearment of animals, and to quote a Muslim source ( he who is kind to animals is kind to himself). The Koran/Quran has some things that are hard to understand like continuing the practice of ritual slaughter or Halal, which is often debated in the UK.  Let us though put these differences to oneside for the time being and look at the positive aspects of Islam.

The Quran 6:38 shows Allah/Gods wisdom and understanding of the social structure of animals:     There is not an animal ( that lives ) on the earth nor a being that flies on its wings ( but forms part of) communities like you.                                    

Surah 7: 73 , 77 If you harm the peaceful camel you will be punished.

Surah 16: 68 This shows that God communicates and teaches other species.

Surah 55:10     Allah /God prepared the earth for all his creatures.

Surah 79:31-33 God created the hills mountains and pastures for animals also.

Surah 16:115 The flesh of the pig is forbidden for you to eat.

The Koran was written down a very time long ago, long before its people had a great influence over how to grow vegetable crops succesfully, such people were at the mercy of the elements, disease and pests, which were always a constant threat to their existence, all they could do was make use of was what Allah had given to them at that time.  Now that the Muslim agricultural community along with the rest of the world has learned the science behind agricultural practice, they now plant with more certainty of harvesting a crop these days, and as a result they are not so much at the mercy of the environment.  Some of the sincere Muslim faithfull have also identified this is a time of unique opportunity and are opting to experience a truly compassionate life by embracing a spiritual and physically beneficial vegetarian diet.