Uncovering the Relationship Between the Qur'an & Science with Shaykh Hamza Karamali

The podcast discusses the relationship between the Quran and science, specifically addressing common objections to interpreting Quranic verses through a scientific lens. Shaykh Hamza Karamali argues that classical scholars engaged with the science of their time when interpreting the Quran and that a nuanced approach, grounded in the Arabic language, is necessary to understand the intended meaning of verses related to the universe. He highlights that the Quran's descriptions of the universe align with modern scientific discoveries, such as the expanding universe, indicating a profound coherence between revelation and scientific understanding.

Quran & Science

• 00:00:57 The podcast explores the relationship between the Quran and science, specifically focusing on how modern scientific discoveries can inform the understanding of Quranic verses related to the universe. The discussion centers around Shaykh Hamza Karamali's perspective on the topic, which emphasizes the importance of considering both the historical and modern scientific context when interpreting the Quran. The conversation aims to clarify misconceptions and promote a deeper understanding of the Quran's compatibility with scientific knowledge.

Spiritual vs. Scientific

• 00:03:26 The Quran's primary purpose is to promote spiritual growth, not to function as a science textbook. While the Quran does refer to the universe and natural phenomena, interpretations must prioritize preserving its spiritual message. However, scientific understanding of the universe is inherently intertwined with interpretations of these verses. Classical scholars integrated the science of their era into their interpretations of the Quran, demonstrating the ongoing interplay between faith and scientific knowledge.

Classical Scholars' Approach

• 00:05:10 Classical scholars of tafsir integrated the science of their time into their understanding of Quranic verses, particularly those related to the cosmos. They reconciled scientific views, like the Aristotelian model of celestial spheres, with the Quran's teachings. This approach shows that a contemporary engagement with science is consistent with the historical practice of Islamic scholarship. Importantly, this engagement did not compromise the spiritual intent of the verses.

Modern Science & Quran

• 00:17:38 Modern science, particularly advancements in cosmology, offers a new lens through which to understand certain Quranic verses. The concept of 'falak' (orbit) in Surah Yasin and the description of day and night covering each other in Surah 7, verse 54, are examples of how modern scientific understanding can shed light on the intended meaning of these verses. These interpretations demonstrate that the Quran's language can be understood in ways relevant to both ancient and modern audiences.

Bedouin Understanding

• 00:27:06 The Quran's verses were revealed to a Bedouin audience, and it's not necessary for them to have understood the full scientific implications of every verse. The Bedouin could have grasped the general meaning, while subsequent generations could gain deeper insights based on evolving scientific understanding. This viewpoint addresses the objection that the Bedouin would have had to possess modern scientific knowledge to understand certain verses.

Oaths & Star Positions

• 00:27:45 The Quran utilizes oaths to emphasize the truth and importance of its message. The oath in Surah 85, referencing the positions of the stars, underscores the tremendous nature of these celestial bodies. Modern astronomy reveals that stars are incredibly distant and many might no longer exist, further highlighting the significance of this oath, a fact unknown to the Bedouin. This interpretation showcases a deeper meaning that becomes apparent with scientific advancements.

Multiple Interpretations

• 00:38:00 Quranic verses often have multiple interpretations, as demonstrated in the books of tafsir. When discussing the Quran and science, it's essential to consider all interpretations before drawing conclusions based on scientific understanding. The objection that choosing a specific scientific interpretation is arbitrary is incorrect since the scholars of tafsir acknowledged diverse interpretations. By evaluating the linguistic and rhetorical intent of the verse within a scientific context, one can arrive at a preferable interpretation.

Expanding Universe

• 00:40:18 The verse in Surah 51:47, which states 'We have built the heavens with might and power, and We are expanding it,' provides a compelling example of how scientific understanding can deepen our understanding of the Quran. Historically, the static universe was the prevailing view, making a literal interpretation of this verse unlikely. However, modern cosmology confirms that the universe is indeed expanding, lending credence to the literal interpretation of the verse. This suggests that the Quran contains scientific insights that are only becoming apparent with contemporary discoveries.