Water and scriptures: ancient roots for sustainable development

Description

This collection of papers aims to draw lessons and apply indigenous knowledge, wisdom and cultural traditions to suit policy contexts describing the (a) role of individuals (b) communities, and (c) the state to ensure effectively manage water resources. Readers will discover ways in which water was conceptualized, conserved and managed. Contributions will also shed light on the historical, functional and futuristic perspectives of water resources management, and readers will be able to draw lessons and evolve policy guidelines. There are some studies related to scriptures across religions and their perceptions regarding ecological conservation. However, religious studies and their socio-economic and environmental relevance to society, more specifically to the current policy contexts, are limited. This book attempts to bridge this gap, in terms of learning lessons from the past to effectively address the challenges of the present and future. The book will be useful for historians and research scholars studying the place of water in different cultures, water pricing and water sharing; as well as ecologists and environmental scientists.;Preface; Contents; Water and Scriptures: An Introduction; Introduction; Water, Culture and Religion; Background and Process; Process; First Phase; Content Framework; Progress Review; Work-In-Progress Workshops; Chapters; References; Websites; Water in Islam; Introduction; Methodology; Water, a Natural and Precious Resource; Water, Its Uses and Disposal; Rainfall, an Annually Renewable/Regenerative Process; Surface and Groundwater Found in Nature; Mapping Water on the Planet; Common Sources of Water; Quality/Grade of Water; Water, a Critical Resource.