The Speed of Light and the Quranic Verses on Divine Decree

The harmony between modern scientific discoveries and ancient scripture has captivated both scientists and theologians. Among the most intriguing intersections is the concept of the speed of light—299,792 kilometers per second—and the Quranic verses addressing divine decree (Qadar). This article explores the fascinating relationship between the immutable laws of physics and the timeless message of the Quran, offering insights that stimulate both faith and intellectual curiosity.

Understanding Divine Decree (Qadar) in Islam

Definition and Theological Foundation

Qadar refers to Allah’s eternal knowledge, will, and control over everything that occurs in the universe. It is one of the six articles of faith in Islam and represents the belief that all events—good or bad—are preordained by divine wisdom.

The Four Aspects of Qadar

Islamic scholars describe Qadar in four components: Allah’s knowledge, the writing in Al-Lawh Al-Mahfuz (Preserved Tablet), His will, and the creation of all actions and events.

Human Will and Responsibility

Despite the concept of divine preordainment, humans are endowed with free will. This duality emphasizes accountability in Islam, where humans make choices while God’s knowledge encompasses all outcomes.

The Quran’s Perspective on Time

Time as a Creation

In Surah Al-Anbiya (21:30), the Quran hints at the creation of the universe, which by extension includes the dimension of time. Time, therefore, is not absolute but a part of creation.

Variable Time in the Quran

Verses like Surah Al-Hajj (22:47) and Surah As-Sajdah (32:5) mention different scales of time—”a day like a thousand years” or “a day like fifty thousand years”—which implies relativistic views of time, resembling modern physics concepts.

Timelessness of the Divine

Allah is not bound by time. He is Al-Awwal (The First) and Al-Akhir (The Last), transcending the linear experience of time that humans are familiar with.

Scientific Discovery of the Speed of Light

Historical Overview

The speed of light was first roughly estimated by Ole Rømer in the 17th century. Over the centuries, scientific advancements refined this number to the current value.

Einstein and the Constant Speed

Einstein’s theory of relativity postulates that the speed of light is constant in a vacuum and acts as a universal speed limit, revolutionizing our understanding of space and time.

Implications in Modern Science

The speed of light is integral to GPS systems, telecommunications, and even our understanding of the universe’s expansion. It is not just a number; it’s a foundation for modern technology and cosmology.

Quranic Verses Possibly Alluding to Light-Speed Phenomena

Surah As-Sajdah (32:5)

“He arranges [each] matter from the heaven to the earth; then it will ascend to Him in a Day, the measure of which is a thousand years of those which you count.” This verse has been interpreted by some scholars to align with calculations involving the speed of light.

Surah Al-Ma’arij (70:4)

“The angels and the Spirit ascend to Him in a day, the measure of which is fifty thousand years.” Some researchers suggest this may refer to distances that only light (or faster-than-human entities) could traverse in those time frames.

Interpretative Challenges

While these verses are open to metaphorical and spiritual interpretation, their numeric and scientific implications continue to spark scholarly intrigue and debate.

Connections Between Divine Decree and Light in Islamic Thought

• Light (Nur) is often used symbolically to refer to divine guidance and knowledge in the Quran.

• The speed and purity of light can be metaphorically linked to the speed and certainty of divine command.

• The Quran speaks of Allah’s command being executed instantaneously, akin to how light travels without delay.

• Light is a recurring motif in Islamic cosmology, representing divine will made manifest in the physical world.

Philosophical Implications of Light-Speed and Divine Knowledge

• If divine decree is instant and encompassing, could light-speed serve as a physical metaphor for divine immediacy?

• The constancy of light speed may represent the unchanging nature of Allah’s will.

• Light as guidance: Just as light reveals the path, divine decree governs the hidden path of existence.

• The Quran’s subtle references to time and distance can be seen as bridges between the spiritual and the scientific.

The Role of Human Perception in Interpreting Time and Decree

• Our perception of time is linear, but the Quran hints at a multidimensional understanding of time.

• Human minds are limited in grasping the full scope of divine decree.

• Time dilation in relativity mirrors the Islamic concept of variable time spans.

• Science and spirituality both strive to uncover the hidden layers of existence, often complementing each other.

Bridging Quranic Cosmology and Modern Science

• Scientific discoveries should inspire deeper reflection on Quranic verses, not conflict.

• The Quran encourages pondering over the universe as signs of Allah’s wisdom.

• Muhammadan Quran School incorporates these topics in advanced Quranic study discussions.

• Faith and reason, when balanced, enhance both spiritual and intellectual understanding.

Conclusion

The interplay between the speed of light and the Quranic concept of divine decree opens a door to awe-inspiring contemplation. While the Quran is not a science textbook, it remains timelessly relevant, encouraging believers to explore, reflect, and connect with the cosmos and their Creator. Whether you are a curious adult or a young learner, Muhammadan Quran School offers online Quran classes tailored to different ages, helping individuals engage with the Quran’s spiritual and intellectual depths.