The Contribution of Islam to the Solution of World Problems — Page 30
30 spiritual truths, emphasizing the accord between nature and spiritual truth, thus excluding any possibility of conflict. It goes further. It draws repeated attention to man’s position as God’s vicegerent upon earth, and lays emphasis upon God’s bounty in making the universe subservient to man. This means that the universe is governed by laws and that, therefore, its operatio ns are controlled and regulated, and that through research one can discover these laws and their operation. It also means that the whole of the universe and all its phenomena are at the service of man. Consequently man must carry on research into the laws and workings of nature so as to obtain increasing mastery over the forces of nature, and to put these forces into beneficent service. There is thus no conflict between science and religion so far as Islam is concerned. Islam claims that its guidance is universal and comprehensive. The Qur’an claims that it comprises lasting commandments and teachings which are of universal application: A Messenger from Allah, reciting unto them the pure Scriptures. Therein are lasting commandments. ( Ch. 98: Vs. 3 - 4 )