The Issues of Islam in the Present World
Antiquity was an age of superstition: today, we are in the age of science. Before reaching its present-day zenith, the modern scientific age had to pass through three stages. The eradication of the superstitious mentality marked the first; the second saw the practical beginnings of scientific research; the third was the spectacular culmination of the scientific process in the second half of the twentieth century. The current category examines the contribution made to completing the first two stages by Islam throughout its first millennium.
There can be no doubt that Islam, in essence, is the discovery of such divine guidance as shows man the path to lasting success in the Hereafter. Scientific and industrial developments may not be directly related to the aims and objectives of Islam, but it is nevertheless an indisputable fact that they are significant offshoots of the Islamic revolution. Had the Islamic revolution never seen the light of day, scientific and industrial developments remained unrealised.
The primary purpose of a tree is to bear fruit. However, when it is fully grown, it also gives man shade. The same is the case with Islam. The primary purpose of Islam is to open the door of divine guidance for human beings to come closer to their Lord. However, Islam is a complete truth. Moreover, when such truth reveals itself, it becomes the source of all blessings for humanity— directly and indirectly¬- but it also gives guidance, which is of great practical utility.