A study of the Quran shows that the Quranic teachings are based on realistic approach. When we use the term “realistic approach” to describe a way of thinking, it always means, thinking that is in accordance with reality. One with such a bent of mind will be scientific in all his dealings in the world. His thinking will be totally in accordance with external realities. According to the Quran, there are two kinds of thinking—sincere thinking and insincere thinking or double-standard thinking. The scientific approach is characteristic of a sincere thinker. A sincere thinker cannot envision an approach which is not based on realism. He bases his life on sound and true foundations. On the contrary, it is the insincere thinker who has no principles or scruples. His approach is based on opportunism and he changes his point of view and way of thinking to serve his own interests. That is why there is not even a grain of the scientific approach in him. His thoughts and deeds are totally unpredictable.
To know the deeper meaning of the Quran, knowledge of science is essential. This scientific knowledge doesn’t need to be technical. It is meant in the general sense. You cannot understand the meaning of many Quranic verses unless you have knowledge of science. The Quran says: Copy Arabic text (50:9) We have sent down from the sky blessed water.
What is the meaning of blessed water? If you have scientific knowledge, you can understand this verse deeply. Recent study in science is filled with new discoveries. Science tells us that water is the most essential component of life. Our body consists of more than 80% water. We cannot live without water. This is why, God created water in great quantity. He filled the oceans with water. Two-thirds of the earth comprises of oceans. God filled the oceans with water. But when water is left out for long, it stagnates and becomes polluted. To preserve it from pollution and stagnation, salt was added to it. Ocean water has salt in it. It is so salted that we cannot consume it directly.
What is blessed water from the sky? Science tells us that sun's heat evaporate the ocean water, which forms clouds and falls down as rain. According to God's law, water is lighter than salt. When water evaporates, salt remains behind because it is heavy. Only water vapour rises up. This water vapour forms clouds that fall down as rain. This elaborate system is called desalination. This is purification of ocean water by removal of its salt content. Removal of salt yields fresh water. This complex system extends from the earth below to the clouds high in the sky. In this verse, blessed water means desalinated water. This is water purified of salt. When you read this verse with scientific knowledge in mind, your faith will be greatly revived. God has put in place a great natural system which helps in desalination of water. Salt and fresh water are separated from one another. The system of the entire world is involved in this process. This leads to thrilling shukr for God. To understand the Quran deeply, science is among the necessary requirements.
