Islam and science

One of the greatest distinctions of Islam is that it is a religion that calls for reflection, contemplation, and the pursuit of knowledge. 

The very first command revealed in the Qur’an was the divine word: “Read”, emphasizing that knowledge is the key to guidance, the foundation of progress, and the cornerstone of civilization.

Allah Almighty says:
“Say: Are those who know equal to those who do not know?” [Qur’an 39:9].

This verse elevates the status of scholars and highlights their honored position in both this world and the Hereafter.

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ declared that seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim, saying:

“Seeking knowledge is obligatory upon every Muslim”.

This underscores that knowledge is not a luxury, but a religious duty essential for both individual and societal development.

In Islam, knowledge is not limited to religious sciences alone; it includes every beneficial science that serves humanity and improves life—such as medicine, engineering, astronomy, and mathematics.

This is why Muslim scholars like Ibn Sina, Al-Khwarizmi, Jabir ibn Hayyan, and Ibn al-Haytham laid down the foundations of modern science.

The scholars hold a noble rank in Islam, as they are described as the “heirs of the prophets.” They enlighten the paths of people with knowledge and guide them towards goodness. Thus, a nation that honors knowledge and respects its scholars is a nation walking in the light of Islam, building its civilization upon strong and enduring foundations.