TRADITIONAL SCHOLARS AND MODERN SCIENCE

The traditional scholars preserved the fundamental teachings of the faith, modern scientific advancements are necessary to understand cosmic verses and verses about the universe and the self. “Have those who deny God’s existence not seen the evidence and signs of the origin and beginning of the universe, how it was once a united entity, and We separated it, and We made every living thing from water.” This verse points to the origin of the universe, i.e., the Big Bang Theory, and also to the origin of life. We know that all living beings are made of cells, and the cytoplasm, which is the part of the cell between the nucleus and the cell membrane, contains a large amount of water (approximately 70-80%). This research reinforces our belief in the Quranic statement that not only the entire body but even a single cell indicates that humans and living creatures are created from water. Example: We built the universe with Our might, giving it its vast expanse. (51: 47) According to traditional scholars, this verse describes God’s power and greatness. However, scientific research suggests that this verse refers to the expanding universe: “We constructed the universe with Our might, and We are continuously expanding it.” Although the Quran is not a scientific book in the absolute sense, it contains many scientific indications that can be better understood in the light of modern research. These indications draw our attention to the creation of the universe, the origin of life, and other natural phenomena. We should consider traditional scholars as standard in religious matters, but we should also take modern research into account when interpreting scientific verses. This way, we can better understand the spirit of the faith. Scholars who insist on interpreting every verse solely based on the explanations and interpretations of the early scholars should recognize that while religious commandments should indeed be understood in light of the traditional scholars’ teachings, it is more appropriate to understand cosmic verses through modern scientific research. We shall show them Our signs in the universe and within themselves, until it becomes clear to them that this is the Truth. Is it not enough that your Lord is the witness of all things? (41: 53) Therefore, later generations