آیات کونیہ کی سائنسی تعبیرات: منتخب تفاسیر کی روشنی میں

Scientific Interpretetion of Cosmic Verses: A Study in The Light of Selected Tafasir’s

Abstract

The Qur’an contains numerous cosmic verses that invite deep contemplation on the creation of the universe, the order of celestial bodies and natural phenomena, serving as a gateway to understanding the Creator’s power and wisdom. This study offers a thematic analysis of the scientific interpretation of selected cosmic verses considering three significant tafsīrs: Tafhīm al-Qur’ān by Syed Abul A‘la Maududi, Tafsīr Bayān al-Qur’ān by Dr. Israr Ahmad, and Kitāb-e-Zindagī by Dr. Sultan Bashir Mahmood. The research examines how these scholars approached the intersection of revelation and scientific understanding, drawing on both classical insights and modern scientific concepts. Special attention is given to how Syed Maududi contextualized cosmic references within Qur’anic thematic unity, how Dr. Israr Ahmad integrated spiritual reflection with observational science and how Dr. Sultan Bashir Mahmood employed contemporary physics and cosmology to explain Qur’anic descriptions. The study critically evaluates the strengths and challenges of scientific interpretation, including the risk of over-reliance on evolving scientific theories (Iʿjāz ʿIlmī). It also explores the Qur’anic methodology of encouraging observation, critical thinking and empirical inquiry as part of a faith-driven worldview. The findings reveal a shared emphasis among these scholars on the harmony between revelation and reason, while differing in methodological scope and scientific engagement. This work contributes to bridging the gap between Islamic scholarship and modern science, offering a balanced framework for engaging with cosmic verses in an era of rapid scientific advancement.