Exploring Quranic Astronomy and Contemporary Science

Abstract

Important rites have always been closely linked to the motion of heavenly bodies in Islamic history. The position of the sun in the sky has been matched with the times of daily prayers. Many a believer has had to use the stars or, more lately, a satellite connection to determine Mecca's direction. The apparent size of the moon has traditionally determined the start of each month, including Ramadan. Thus, astronomy has always played a significant role in Islamic culture. Even in the world we live now, Muslims can learn a lot about their faith by connecting it with scientific research and examining them considering Holy Quran and Sunnah. The Holy Quran encourages believers to think and explore the creation of the universe positively. The miraculous book of Holy Quran discusses celestial bodies and how they came together to begin with the creation of the universe. The Holy Quran beautifully drew the sketch for the infamous Big Bang Theory almost fourteen and a half centuries ago when scientists had no clue about the origin of universe. The Holy Quran also debates about other things like how the Earth tilts, planets spread out, the Sirius star, falling rocks from space (called meteorites), and planets outside our solar system (exoplanets). Even the way the moon moves has a special mention, and when we look at it now, it fits with what science says. These verses in the Holy Quran show how well they fit with what we know from modern science. These Quranic evidence of Astronomy tell believers to not just think about why the universe is here but also to explore it, look out for the signs of Almighty in His creation and draw a connection with divinity in light of it. The Holy Quran becomes like a guide, inviting believers to learn more about the world and showing that science and faith can go together. It's like a connection between old teachings and the new things we find out about the universe today. This link between religion and science not only makes Islamic knowledge richer in contemporary era but also shows how beliefs and logics can go hand in hand to understand the world.