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Human Curiosity and the Divine Source of Knowledge in Islam

Human Curiosity, the Source of Knowledge, and the Framework of Inquiry
By: Mujeeb-ul-Haq Haqqi


Human Curiosity and the Pursuit of Knowledge


Curiosity is deeply embedded in human nature. This is why humans constantly seek to uncover the reality and rationale behind every phenomenon. Every natural occurrence follows a systematic order, and man acquires knowledge to understand and explain this order.
Knowledge is defined as the acquisition of scientific understanding or practical awareness of a phenomenon.
Research, therefore, is the pursuit of uncovering hidden truths.


The Distinction Between Humans and Other Creatures


Why is it that only humans pursue the reasoning behind phenomena?
The answer lies in the extraordinary faculties of intellect, reasoning, and curiosity bestowed upon humans — abilities not found in any other creature to the same extent.
This is why humans strive to understand and transform their environment and the systems of nature.
In essence, there is an intrinsic and profound connection between knowledge and humanity.


The Universe and the Origin of Knowledge


The creation of the universe and the simultaneous birth of knowledge are significant inquiries.
While the Western world prides itself on its scientific discoveries, it is remarkable that philosophers and scholars often neglect the foundational source of knowledge itself.


Just as human actions like seeing, hearing, and moving rely on internal and external systems, the process of research and contemplation also depends on such interwoven dynamics.


Understanding the System of Knowledge: The Human–Cosmos Relationship


The Internal and External System


The relationship between human senses and the external world operates in an organized manner. For example:


Sight: The object lies outside, but vision occurs within the eye.
Hearing: Sound comes from the external world, but auditory processing happens in the brain.
Walking: The intention and movement are internal, but the reaction from the ground is external.


These same principles apply to thought and investigation.
During research, the internal framework of the human mind interacts with external knowledge.
For instance, while studying atoms, a harmony exists between human consciousness and the hidden laws within atoms.


The Nature of Intellect


We often consider the intellect to be a simple tool, but in reality, it is an intricately designed system.


Though the intellect aligns with external sciences, it does not generate knowledge on its own — rather, it assists in discovering it.
Our limited understanding of the intellect itself is a barrier to fully comprehending its true nature.


The System of Discovery and Research


Human Curiosity and the Source of Knowledge


Research is a product of human curiosity.
Humans discover knowledge but often fail to reflect on the origin and structure of that knowledge.
While we derive new laws from observation and experience, we seldom explore the depth of how these truths reach us.


This raises a critical question: How does knowledge reach mankind?


Western and Atheistic Perspective


Western philosophy and atheistic science have failed to offer a clear stance on the origin of knowledge.
According to atheism, the universe and all sciences are accidental creations, emerging from theories like the Big Bang and evolution.
Under this view, knowledge emerged simultaneously with the phenomena of the universe.


But this raises an unresolved question:
How can knowledge and its systems come into existence on their own?


Islam and the Source of Knowledge


According to Islam, the source of all knowledge is Allah ﷻ. The Qur’an says:


"وَعَلَّمَ آدَمَ الْأَسْمَاءَ كُلَّهَا"
“And He taught Ādam the names of all things.”
(Surah Al-Baqarah: 31)


This verse implies that knowledge already existed, and it was granted to mankind.
This means the foundation of knowledge was laid beforehand, and humans were given the ability to understand and discover it.


Human Consciousness and the Mechanism of Knowledge


The Human Brain and Transmission of Knowledge:


Man was created in such a way that codes or passwords to universal knowledge were implanted in his brain.
These codes become active through contemplation and research, generating new insights.


When a human investigates a phenomenon, the mind uses these internal codes to reveal the hidden truths of the cosmos.



The Limitations of Intellect and the Role of the Soul


While the intellect helps in understanding natural phenomena, it cannot fully comprehend the reality of the Creator.
To know the Creator, man must connect with the depths of his soul, as the soul is directly linked to the environment of divine creation.



The Limitation of Atheism and the Clarity of Islam


Atheistic philosophy has failed to explain the source of knowledge.
It remains confused not only about the creation of knowledge but also about the system of research.


By contrast, Islam offers a rational and systematic explanation regarding:


✔ The origin of knowledge
✔ Its transmission to mankind
✔ The framework for research and contemplation
 
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