FROM THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF’S DESK
Prof Farida Khanam is an author, editor, translator, public speaker and former professor of Islamic Studies at Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi. Among her books are ‘A Simple Guide to Islam’ and ‘A Study of World’s Major Religions’. She has translated into English many books authored by Maulana Wahiduddin Khan. Currently the chairperson of CPS International, she is a regular contributor of articles to various publications. Prof Khanam has edited Maulana’s English translation of the Quran and has also translated his Urdu commentary on the Quran into English. She can be reached at [email protected]
AWE-INSPIRING UNIVERSE
When the night sky is clear, the sight of twinkling stars brings peace to the human heart. However, those who study the universe know that many of these seemingly tiny stars are in fact enormous celestial bodies, much larger and brighter than the sun. In reality, the stars visible to us are not even the largest or the brightest ones.
According to astronomical research, the universe contains a type of star called a Quasar, which is a thousand times brighter than the sun. These quasars are so distant that their light takes millions of years to reach us, yet their brightness remains visible even from such great distances. If one such quasar were placed in our solar system, its intensity would be so immense that the entire sky would be overwhelmed by its light, rendering the night indistinguishable from day.
This extraordinary brightness results from the quasar’s internal thermonuclear reactions, which continuously release an immense amount of energy. Scientists believe that the energy emitted from one quasar is greater than that of an entire galaxy containing billions of stars. However, the creation and sustenance of these celestial bodies remain a profound mystery. Human knowledge, despite its progress, has yet to uncover the complete reality behind these cosmic wonders.
Throughout history, humans have been misled by the superficial appearance of things, failing to recognize their true nature. The Quran mentions this tendency: They only know the outward appearance of the life of this world, and they are neglectful of the Hereafter. (30: 7) This means while humans excel in understanding the material world, they often remain ignorant of the greater realities beyond it.
Modern science has allowed humans to explore the vastness of the universe, but despite their advanced knowledge, they still fail to grasp the ultimate truth of existence. The true reality, which lies beyond the reach of material observation, can only be understood through divine guidance. Today, humankind is in a state where they witness astonishing discoveries in space yet remain heedless of the deeper wisdom behind creation.
The Quran invites humans to reflect on these cosmic signs and recognize the power of the Creator. The grand scale of the universe is not just a marvel but also a reminder of human insignificance and the need to acknowledge God’s existence and supremacy.
