قرآن میں حیاتیاتی ارتقاء (Evolution) سے متعلق اشارات: جدید بایولوجی کے ساتھ تقابلی مطالعہ

QUR’ANIC ALLUSIONS TO BIOLOGICAL EVOLUTION:A COMPARATIVE STUDY WITH MODERN BIOLOGY

Abstract

This research article presents an interdisciplinary analysis of the verses of the Qur'an that relate to the origin of life and its gradual development, examining their correlation with contemporary theories of biological evolution. While the Qur'an is not a scientific textbook, it contains numerous verses that symbolically and conceptually refer to the stages of creation, the beginning of life, and the formation of the human being. This study seeks to explore whether the Qur'anic descriptions of the creation of life particularly human life can be reconciled with the foundational principles of modern evolutionary biology, such as natural selection, genetic variation, and common ancestry.The analysis involves a detailed examination of relevant Qur'anic verses, considering their linguistic, exegetical (tafsiri), and contextual meanings, and comparing them with scientific interpretations. Particular focus is given to verses from Surah Al-Mu’minun, Surah As-Sajdah, Surah An-Nur, and Surah Al-Insan, where different stages of human creation are mentioned. These are examined in light of modern biological science to assess potential points of convergence. The findings indicate that the Qur'an’s portrayal of a progressive, stage-by-stage creation of life provides a conceptual framework that does not inherently contradict evolutionary theory. Rather, when both are interpreted within their respective epistemological domains, a degree of intellectual compatibility emerges.The paper also engages with the broader philosophical and theological implications of integrating religious texts with scientific theories. It argues that religious scripture and science need not be viewed as mutually exclusive or inherently antagonistic. Instead, a constructive dialogue is possible, where the Qur’an invites deep reflection upon the natural order, and science offers empirical tools for exploring that order. In conclusion, this research advocates for a thoughtful and academically grounded interface between Qur'anic discourse and modern biology, contributing not only to the discourse of religion and science but also to the advancement of scientific literacy within Muslim societies.