The Quran is a book of cosmic knowledge, a dictionary which defines the true meaning of what we see in the world around us. The Quran says that “He (God) ordains all things. He makes plain His revelations.” (13:2) He ordains all things in that He manages the universe; He makes plain His revelations in that He explains its relevance in the Quran.

One may look at the universe and think that it is born of chance. Not so, the Quran corrects one: it is the conscious work of a conscious being; it has not been created in vain. (3:191)

One looks at the system of cause and effect which functions in the world. It appears like an automatic machine, a self-made system with no need of an operator. But the Quran tells one that it is operated by God, who sends His angels to maintain and sustain the world. (13:11)

One sees certain similarities between successive forms of life, and thinks that all species are the result of an evolutionary process. But the Quran puts one right. The universe has a creator, it says, and all things have come into being through His creation. (2:29, 6:73)

Observing the universe, one cannot fail to be struck by the wonderful works of art, the ingenious displays of consummate skill, which lie before one. There are atoms, dancing around within matter. Two particles—without life—come together to mould a third object—a new life. Stars revolve in space, without the slightest deviation from their set speed. Tiny seeds are transformed into luxuriant trees. Life in all its multiple forms seems like a torrent surging all around us, all these events, and many more, are happening in the universe, but they are happening silently. No cosmic event defines itself. Nothing speaks to man, revealing to him its inner significance.

Seeing this, man thinks that perhaps the universe is a collection of dumb masterpieces. Once again, the Quran comes to his rescue, telling him that the world, in all its manifold vitality, is not without purpose. There will come a time when everything will be revealed in all its meaning, when a needle will be lodged on the record of the universe, and music will emerge from its hitherto silent groves. For every vision there is a horizon in this world, but when the truth comes to light it will illuminate all things. All man’s questions will be answered. He will take up the place which, in relation to reality, is rightfully his. □