The Narratives – Mohamed Miah

When it comes to animals, I love them all. Of course, it’s easier to admire the less aggressive ones, but even those whose nature leans towards ferocity deserve respect when they’re in their natural habitat. Admiration from afar is often the wisest approach—no one wants to interrupt a lion’s lunch.

But if I had to choose a favourite, it would undoubtedly be cats. I’ve always been a cat person. There’s something deeply intriguing about them—their independence, their elegance, and the way they seem to hold a quiet wisdom. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) himself had a beloved cat named Muezza, and there are beautiful stories that show his deep affection and care for animals. One tells of how Muezza once fell asleep on the sleeve of the Prophet’s prayer garment. Rather than disturb the cat, our beloved Prophet (peace be upon him) cut off the sleeve so Muezza could rest peacefully. Another story describes how the Prophet (peace be upon him) would let Muezza drink from his water jug before using it for ablution. These stories reflect the importance of kindness and love towards animals in Islam.

I also have a deep admiration for the majesty of big cats like lions and tigers. Watching a lion command its territory with such confidence and grace, or a tiger prowling silently through the jungle, is awe-inspiring. There’s something extraordinary about their regal ownership of their space—no apologies, no hesitation, just pure presence.

And then there are elephants. Wise, gentle giants that lead their families with care and strength. Their matriarchal structure, where the eldest female leads the herd, is a testament to their intelligence and deep social bonds. Seeing an elephant up close, with its soulful eyes and deliberate movements, reminds me of the wisdom that exists in nature—if only we stop to observe it.

Even the smallest creatures hold wonders. Take ants, for example. Did you know that some ants bury their dead to prevent disease from spreading through their colonies? It’s a tiny act that speaks volumes about the balance and purpose ingrained in even the smallest of God’s creations. And that’s the thing—we often think of ourselves as superior to animals because we can’t get down to their level. But everything, from the smallest insect to the mightiest lion, was made by God for a purpose. Animals, in many ways, understand that purpose better than we do. They live simply, fulfilling the roles they were created for, without the distractions of ego or greed.

So, whether it’s a domestic cat curling up for a nap, a lion roaring into the Savannah, or an ant carrying out its humble duties, there’s so much to love and learn from the animal kingdom. It’s a reminder that kindness, respect, and awe should extend to all creatures. After all, they’re all part of this extraordinary world we’ve been blessed to share.