Sacred Soil

(Surah Al-An’am 6:141)

At the heart of our faith is a deep recognition that everything Allah ﷻ has created is a trust (amanah). Food, soil and the cycles of life are not only sources of sustenance, but signs of Allah’s wisdom and mercy. The Qur’an and Sunnah remind us to live with moderation, gratitude, and responsibility – values that speak directly to how we consume, waste and care for the earth beneath our feet.

The 6-week faith-inspired composting programme at Bahu Trust Masjid is a journey that brings together spirituality, practical knowledge and environmental stewardship. Through reflection on Islamic teachings and hands-on learning, we will explore how composting can become an act of worship, a way of reducing waste and a path to reconnecting with the sacred cycles of creation.

Community composting is more than just recycling food scraps, it is about nurturing the soil that sustains us, reviving prophetic values of care and balance and building stronger, greener communities. By coming together, we not only reduce the burden of waste but also contribute to a healthier environment and a legacy of barakah for future generations.

Over six inspiring sessions, we will reflect on food in Islam, learn simple composting methods, explore the science of Bokashi, reflect on prophetic habits of consumption, connect gut and soil health, and marvel at the humble worm — a small yet profound sign of Allah’s wisdom.

Food in Islam
Understanding food as a divine blessing and trust (amanah).

  • Basic Introduction to composting 
  • Introduction to Food in Islam
  • The global food system & the food cycle
  • Soil Microscopy – Viewing the world of wonder under a microscope 

Composting for Beginners – Simple, practical ways to start composting at home.

  • How to compost for beginners
  • Composting food scraps
  • Turning your compost
  • Knowing the difference between nitrogen and carbon materials 

Introduction to Bokashi – Learn this easy, indoor composting method rooted in fermentation.

  • Introduction to Bokashi Composting
  • The Science Behind Bokashi
  • Bokashi Materials and Equipment
  • Daily Use and Management
  • Bokashi Tea (leachate) and Its Uses
  • Post-Fermentation Steps

Consumption & Waste – Reflecting on moderation, barakah and prophetic habits in a world of excess.

  • Consumption and Waste
  • How to reduce food waste
  • Creative recipes from food waste 

Gut Health & Prophetic Cooking – Discover links between soil health, gut health and holistic Sunnah practices.

  • Alternative cooking practices
  • Reducing salt, sugar and fat in traditional cooking practices
  • Healthy alternative recipes

The Miracles of Worms – A look at the humble earthworm – nature’s quiet miracle and a sign of Allah’s wisdom.

This programme is proudly part of the Birmingham Food Legends Programme and is being delivered in partnership with The Compost Connection. Training will be led by Shabana ParveenClaire Woolnough, and Kamran Shezad, blending practical skills with spiritual reflection to help us rediscover the miracle of Allah’s creation in the soil, worms and the cycle of food.

Project supported by: