| Topic title | Page number |
|---|---|
| Introduction: The Symphony of Divine Mastery | |
| Exhibit I: The Symphony of the Symphony of the Universe | 6 |
| First: The constants of life: A precise geometry that does not tolerate randomness | 7 |
| The Anthropic Principle: The universe designed for life | 9 |
| II: Symphony of the stars: The marvelous order in the movement of celestial bodies | 11 |
| Symphony of expansion: The Expanding Universe: The marvelous regularity of the universe | 12 |
| Exhibit II: The Symphony of Life - Miraculous Design in Living Things | 16 |
| The genetic bag: The Coded Book of Life | 16 |
| Irreducible Complexity: A Whisper of Perfection at the Heart of Life | 24 |
| Exhibit III: The Scientific Basis for the Conscious Behavior of Protein Molecules in the Cell | 27 |
| SECTION FOUR: The Symphony of Consciousness - A Conscious Universe Praising God | 36 |
| Section V: Suggested Interactive Activities | 39 |
| Conclusion: Intelligent Design in the Light of the Qur'an and Science | 42 |
In every atom of existence and in every pulse of the universe, the Creator's creativity is evident. We look at the night sky and see the stars as if they were jewels scattered on a deep black cloth, harmonious in their formations and regular in their paths.
We turn to the earth and witness the amazing harmony between living beings and the environment that embraces them. We look in the mirror and discover amazing miracles taking place in our bodies without us even realizing it.
The universe is not just a random collection of matter and energy, nor is it the product of blind chance, as materialists claim. Rather, it is a great masterpiece that speaks one word in every detail: "Hallelujah."
It is an integrated system of elaborate, meticulously designed systems, testifying to the existence of a wise, knowledgeable, and almighty designer.
In this chapter, we contemplate together the signs of intelligent design in the universe, the amazing scientific evidence that confirms that this existence is governed by a will, driven by a purpose, and organized by wisdom.
We will see how the most accurate discoveries of contemporary science and its latest theories are in amazing harmony with what the Holy Qur'an told us more than fourteen centuries ago about the mastery and creativity of creation.
From the fine-tuning of cosmic constants to the complexity of the living cell, from the marvelous order in the movement of celestial bodies to the amazing engineering of living organisms, we will find that every step forward, science reveals a new sign of divine design that truly speaks of what our Lord said:
We will discover that the entire universe, from its smallest components to its largest galaxies, is in a state of perpetual praise to its Creator. It is not a metaphorical praise, but a real praise, stemming from the creatures' awareness and realization of the greatness of their Creator, even if we do not realize with our limited senses this praise, as the Almighty said:
This journey is not just a scientific or philosophical investigation of the signs of intelligent design, but an invitation to deep contemplation of God's kingdom and His manifestations in His creation. It is an invitation to reflection that leads to certainty, and consideration that leads to reverence.
Divine calibration: Cosmic constants with astonishing precision
If we look at the universe through the eyes of a physicist, we find that we live in a finely tuned universe that is beyond any random explanation. There are a set of fundamental physical constants that form the basis of the laws that govern the universe, and these constants are tuned in such a way that they seem to be specifically designed to allow life to exist.
The electromagnetic force, the strong nuclear force, the weak nuclear force, the gravitational force - these four fundamental forces are so finely tuned that if the value of any one of them changed by even a tiny amount, the universe would collapse or life would be impossible.
In my scientific journey as a researcher, there was a moment of reflection on the universe. I was looking for the cosmological constant when I started to realize how amazingly fine-tuned it is. I remember sitting up that night looking at the stars from the roof of my house, and I felt a deep sense of wonder, as if I were seeing the universe for the first time. How could a system so finely tuned be the result of blind chance? At that moment, I was looking at the universe not just as a researcher, but as a human being wondering about the deep meaning behind all this perfection.
The word "disparity" means imbalance and disproportion, and the negation of disparity in God's creation emphasizes this fine-tuning and wondrous consistency in the system of the universe.
The Anthropic Principle is a philosophical-scientific cosmological concept that refers to the observation that the laws of physics, chemistry, and cosmological constants in the universe appear to be finely tuned to allow the existence of life and consciousness, especially the life of a conscious observer. The term is derived from the Greek word "anthropos," which means "human."
In simpler terms, the anthropic principle proposes that the laws and parameters of the universe (gravitational force, nuclear force, cosmological constant, etc.) are so finely tuned that if any of them varied by even a tiny amount, life as we know it could not exist.
It is an important physics concept that suggests that the universe is designed in a way that allows life and consciousness to exist.
The observations show that the universe began in a state of high order, which contradicts the predictions of the second law, which indicates that entropy increases with time. This indicates the existence of a mechanism or external intervention that led to the creation of this order, which some consider evidence of the miraculous creation of the universe.
Surprisingly, physicists have discovered that even space itself is uniquely designed. Only in three-dimensional space can electron orbits be stable, allowing stable atoms to exist and thus form matter as we know it. If space were two- or four-dimensional, complex life would not be possible.
This reminds us of Almighty God's words: "And the earth we have stretched it out, and have cast therein anchors, and have planted therein every kind of weighty thing" [al-Hajar: 19]. The word "weighed" means accurate and balanced estimation, and it refers to this perfect control that we find in every aspect of the universe.
The dance of the planets: The harmony of astronomical movements
Imagine lifting your head to the night sky and watching the stars and planets twinkling in space. What we see is not just a beautiful sight, but a stunning display of an elaborate system in which the celestial bodies move with perfect precision.
The Earth rotates on its axis at a speed of 1,670 km/h at the equator, completing a full revolution exactly every 24 hours. At the same time, it orbits the sun at 107,000 km/h, completing a full cycle every 365.25 days. The sun itself and all its planets move in an orbit around the center of the Milky Way galaxy at a speed of 828,000 km/h.
Despite these incredible speeds and multiple overlapping motions, we do not feel any turbulence or vibration. Rather, these movements are so finely tuned that day and night continue to alternate regularly, the seasons change in a calculated order, and the years pass in a marvelous regularity.
This remarkable precision, Davies points out, is a direct result of the orderly and controlled operation of the fundamental laws of physics, most notably gravity as described by Newton and Einstein, and not the result of random chance or what might be called "organized chaos."
These verses talk about the sun's flow to a stable position, which is proven by modern science that the sun moves in its own orbit around the center of the galaxy. It also talks about the estimation of the houses of the moon, which are the different phases that the moon goes through during the lunar month. It then emphasizes that both the sun and the moon have their own orbits that do not mix with each other, "The sun should not make the moon," and that each celestial body swims in its own orbit, "And all are in their own orbit."
I remember well the moment of the "big reveal" in astrophysics, when I first realized that the universe is not static, but in a state of constant expansion. The discovery that changed the course of cosmology forever was made by Edwin Hubble in the 1920s, when he observed the phenomenon of "redshift" in the light of distant galaxies, indicating that they were moving away from us at a speed proportional to their distance.
But the most astonishing discovery came in 1998, when two independent teams of scientists led by Saul Perlmutter, Brian Schmidt, and Adam Ries (2011 Nobel Prize winners in Physics) discovered that the expansion of the universe is not constant but accelerating!
This startling discovery led to the concept of Dark Energy, the mysterious force that makes up about 68% of the universe's energy and drives its accelerating expansion.
If the rate of expansion had been even slightly faster, galaxies would have disintegrated before they formed, and if it had been slightly slower, the universe would have collapsed in on itself before planets and life evolved. This extremely delicate balance was one of the reasons why physicist Stephen Hawking said, "There seems to be a careful design to the laws of nature, to the initial conditions in the universe."
In a stunning development published in the journal Science in April 2023, an international team of astronomers using the James Webb Space Observatory discovered the "Hubble Tension Anomaly," a discrepancy between near and far measurements of the expansion rate of the universe, suggesting the possibility of "new physics" outside the Standard Model.
Dr. Wendy Friedman, distinguished astronomer and professor at the University of Chicago: "This discrepancy suggests that we may be on the cusp of discovering new laws of physics, or a deeper understanding of the nature of dark energy and dark matter, which together make up 95% of the content of the universe."
Michael Turner, a prominent astrophysicist, notes that this new discovery "may represent the most significant shift in our understanding of the universe since the discovery of the acceleration of cosmic expansion in 1998."
Between science and revelation: Signs ahead of their time
To my personal surprise, the Holy Qur'an referred to these modern cosmological facts more than fourteen centuries ago.
The word "expansive" comes in the form of a continuous active noun, indicating that the process of expanding the sky is continuous and ongoing, which is exactly what modern science discovered in the twentieth century.
In other verses, the Qur'an describes the precision of the movement of celestial bodies: "And the sun runs to its resting place, that is the estimation of the Almighty, the all-knowing * And the moon we have set it in places until it is like the old wheel * Neither the sun should know the moon, nor the night precedes the day, and all are in an astronomical realm" [Yus: 38-40].
What is impressive here is the use of the term "swimming" to express the movement of the celestial bodies, a precise term that suggests continuous smooth movement within a certain medium, just as modern physics reveals the movement of bodies in the Space-Time Fabric described by Einstein in his theory of general relativity.
When I contemplate these amazing facts, I find myself in front of a cosmic symphony whose notes we are still discovering. We do not live in a random universe, but in a system that is finely tuned beyond imagination, like a carefully composed musical composition.
If we could dive into the nucleus of a single cell in your body, we would see one of the greatest manifestations of intelligent design: DNA. This wondrous molecule is the book of life, carrying the complete genetic code of every living organism. It is not just a chemical molecule, but a living library, a comprehensive "instruction book" that defines every detail of an organism, from eye color to complex organ functions.
On a cold winter morning in 2018, I stood staring at the magnified image of DNA in front of me. I will never forget that moment when my fingers trembled, not from the cold, but from the shiver of knowledge that comes when a researcher comes face to face with one of the greatest mysteries of existence.
What I was seeing was not just a molecule, but a miniature cosmic book, or rather a whole library folded into a space that is only fractions of a micrometer!
An amazing complexity that defies chance
In each of your cells, there are 3.2 billion "letters" (base pairs) of genetic information stored in precise order. Amazingly, this code contains instructions for building and operating more than 200 types of cells in your body, from brain cells to heart, bone and skin cells. Self-correcting and self-repairing systems are constantly working to fix errors that occur during DNA copying, with 99.9999% accuracy per copy.
Where did genetic information come from?
Werner Jette, a pioneer of information theory, explains: "The amount of information encoded in a pinhead-sized region of DNA is equivalent to the amount of information that can be stored in stacks of books 500 times as high as the distance between the Earth and the Moon!"
Jett adds in his subsequent book, Without Excuse (2011): "It has become scientifically impossible to explain the information encoded in DNA without postulating an intelligent source. In all of human history, we have never witnessed the emergence of organized, coded, purposeful information without a conscious source."
This conclusion stems not from religious considerations, but from the principles of information theory itself. Information theory, developed by Claude Shannon and expanded by later works, has established that complex and specific information is the product of an intelligent and guided process, not random processes.
The results show the extreme rarity of functional sequences in the overall "sequence space" of proteins, raising questions about how functional proteins arise in nature.
The Coded Language of the Universe
The DNA code is made up of four basic "letters": Adenine (A), thymine (T), guanine (G), and cytosine (C). These letters are arranged in infinitely precise sequences into "words," "sentences" and "paragraphs" that translate into proteins, the building blocks of life. This organization is not random; it is a highly complex information system that requires an incredible level of precision to function efficiently.
Imagine if every letter in a huge book was undefined by chance. The result would be a meaningless mess. But in DNA, every letter is in its rightful place, and every sequence has meaning and function. This information architecture is what characterizes living systems, and it is what prompts speculation about the source of this super-organization.
The miracle of genetic organization: Beyond the Basic Code
What makes the genome even more fascinating is not just the sequence of letters, but how this code is organized and expressed. Recent research has revealed complex layers of genetic control that go beyond the linear sequence of genes.
Recent information suggests that the genome is not just a "list of genes", but a "dynamic system that is constantly interacting" Processes such as "epigenetic modifications", which alter the activity of genes without changing the DNA sequence itself, add to this complexity. These modifications act as "sticky notes" on the "instruction book," telling the cell how to read and interpret the genetic code in different contexts, and how it is affected by environmental and lifestyle factors. This partly explains how two people can have the same genes but exhibit different characteristics, or how health can be influenced by factors outside the direct genetic makeup.
Organized information: Evidence of teleological design?
From a purely scientific perspective, "information theory" shows that organized, purposeful, and complex information does not automatically emerge from chaos or pure randomness. We wouldn't expect a beautiful poem or a complex computer program to emerge just by randomly pressing the keyboard. This level of organization in DNA, which manages delicate and interconnected biological processes, leads some to ponder the idea of an intelligent source of this information.
In this context, we can review the vision of some scientists who have pondered this aspect. "Professor Francis Collins, who led the Human Genome Project, found no contradiction between his scientific faith and his religion. In his book The Language of God, Collins expresses that the discoveries of science, especially the genome, have strengthened his faith: "We are now discovering the language in which God created life. We are gaining more and more admiration for the complexity, beauty and splendor of life."
Also, the famous philosopher Anthony Flew, who was one of the most prominent atheists of the 20th century before his conversion, expressed his conversion in part due to the complexity of DNA. In his book "There is a God: How the World's Most Notorious Atheist Changed His Mind", Flew noted that "The astonishing arrangement of nitrogenous bases in DNA and the resulting immense complexity of the mechanisms of life point to an infinite intelligence behind this system."
These insights, whether from biologists or philosophers, highlight how the complexities of the biological world can lead us to deeper questions about origins and meaning, and how there can be points of convergence between science and faith in our understanding of the universe.
My musings: Between Science and Meaning
When I dive into DNA research, I find myself in a state of scientific amazement mixed with deep philosophical contemplation at this highly complex molecular structure. The precision of the information encoded in the sequence of nitrogenous bases and the amazing transcription and self-correcting mechanisms represent an information system that is more efficient and complex than our most sophisticated computer systems.
My scientific curiosity is how defenders of purely materialistic explanations and evolutionists can turn a blind eye to the question of the origin of such purposeful, organized information. The mathematical probabilities and statistical calculations of the random formation of just one functional DNA sequence stand as a logical barrier to unguided explanations, leading me to wonder if they have the scientific courage to follow the evidence wherever it leads, even if it points to conclusions that challenge the dominant materialist framework of the natural sciences?
As a researcher, I respect the scientific method, but I find that the question of the origin of complex genetic information deserves a deeper and more open exploration, away from the ideological polarization that may hinder real progress in our understanding of fundamental biological phenomena.
And the pressing question: Where did this organized and coded information come from? We know from the laws of information theory that organized and purposeful information cannot arise spontaneously by random natural processes. A book needs a writer, a program needs a programmer, and a message needs an intelligent sender.
The human genome: A constantly unfolding mystery
The human genome has long been a mystery that has fascinated scientists. For decades, large portions of it were considered "Junk DNA," a label reflecting the belief that these non-coding regions - which contain no instructions for building proteins - have no important biological function. However, recent scientific discoveries have turned this notion on its head, revealing unexpected layers of complexity and organization in these parts of our genome.
Revealing the vital role of non-coding regions
Non-coding regions are no longer just "junk". Cutting-edge research today shows that these regions play a vital role in "regulating gene expression" - when and where genes are turned on and off. This precise regulation is essential for maintaining cell and tissue function, and any disruption can lead to disease.
For example, multiple studies indicate that "a large proportion of genetic mutations associated with various diseases, such as cancer, heart disease, and neurological disorders, are located in non-coding regions" of the genome. This shows that these regions are not silent or non-functional, but are key hubs in a complex genetic control network. Altering these regions disrupts the "control programs" that dictate the normal behavior of genes, resulting in the development of disease.
The genome as an integrated computer system
The human genome can be visualized as a "complex network or integrated computer system." Genes are not just independent units operating in isolation from each other, but are part of an integrated system where coding and non-coding regions interact in highly complex ways to guide cellular processes.
In 2022, researchers from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Harvard University developed an advanced "neural network" model. This model has the potential to predict how changes in non-coding DNA sequences affect gene expression and reproductive fitness in simple organisms such as yeast. Although this study focuses on yeast, it provides valuable insights into the underlying principles that may govern gene regulation in more complex organisms, including humans. These models contribute to understanding how these complex regulatory networks have evolved over time and how they control subtle biological processes. ("The evolution, evolvability and engineering of gene regulatory DNA.", Aviv Regev et al., Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Nature, March 2022)
Nobel Prize-winning physicist Charles Townes, one of the inventors of the laser, has spoken about the relationship between science and religion. In an essay titled "Logic and Uncertainty in Science and Religion" published in Science and the Future of Mankind in 2007, Townes expressed his balanced view of this relationship: "Science and religion represent two different aspects of human understanding and are often seen as quite different, yet they can be closely related."
These statements from prominent scientists highlight that the relationship between science and religion is not necessarily a clash, but can be complementary, with each offering a unique perspective on understanding the universe and existence. Discoveries in genomics, with their incredible complexity, continue to inspire deep questions about the origin and meaning of life.
Our journey in understanding genetic information is just beginning. Each new discovery opens up broader horizons and raises deeper questions. The genome is not just a static sequence, but a living system that interacts, adapts, and holds secrets that have yet to be revealed. This marvel of detail, harmony of functions, and adaptability makes us think about the greatness of this creation and the amount of information that is still waiting to be revealed.
When I delve into the details of biological systems, those mechanical miracles that run life, the concept of "irreducible complexity" introduced by biochemist Dr. Michael Behe comes to mind. It is not just a scientific term, but an invitation to contemplate living systems made up of interconnected parts that are so brilliantly integrated that the removal of any one part leads to the collapse of the overall function. These systems are not like a puzzle piece that can be gradually assembled; they are more like a delicate Swiss watch, each cog of which is essential to the movement of its hands.
The microscopic engines of life: The bacterial flagellum
This amazing structure is not just "hair"; it consists of dozens of interconnected protein components, which act as shafts, bearing rings, stabilizers, and even a miniature electric "rotor". Come to think of it, any mechanical engineer would be impressed by this design. Could such a system have arisen by chance?
This is the question Dr. Behe raises in his work, noting that the bacterial flagellum presents a challenge to purely incremental evolutionary explanations, as it is not possible to imagine an intermediate stage for this structure where it is a "half-engine" that performs a useful function. It either functions as an integrated whole or not at all. This makes it an iconic example of irreducible complexity.
Symphony of life: The blood clotting system and the complexity of homeostasis
Think for a moment: If blood loses its ability to clot, even a small cut can be fatal. If the blood clots unnecessarily, clots can clog blood vessels. This delicate balance, which requires each of its components to function efficiently, is further evidence of a brilliantly designed system. Every part, from the starting factor to the final fibrin filament, is indispensable. It is an all-encompassing system in which no imperfection is tolerated.
The human eye: A window into complexity and harmony
It's not just a glass globe; it's a complex network of cornea, iris, lens, retina, optic nerves, and the muscles that move it. Each part is meticulously designed to work in perfect harmony to capture light and convert it into electrical signals that the brain interprets as images. When I look at the world around me, seeing the details of colors and shadows, I find myself wondering about the infinite ingenuity that designed this delicate visual machine. No part can function on its own. The lens doesn't see, the retina doesn't interpret, and the muscles don't clarify vision on their own. It is only when all these parts come together that the image of the world is formed in our minds.
Seeing Cosmic Mastery
These biological systems, with their irreducible complexity, go beyond mere chemical processes; they are the living embodiment of an intelligence inherent in the universe. They are not mere "coincidence" as some might think, but perfect biological "engineering".
The word "taqwim" here includes not only the outward form, but also the arrangement, organization, and precise coordination of every part of this organism, including the complex systems we have discussed. It is an invitation to contemplate the perfection of creation, and how every detail of the human being is designed in such a way that it brilliantly serves its function.
For me, these are not just scientific theories, they are windows into a greatness that we cannot fully comprehend. They remind us that a deeper order, a superior intelligence, lies behind the complexity of life that science is still discovering bit by bit. The deeper we understand these systems, the more we marvel at what lies behind them.
Deep within every living cell, the microscopic organisms that make up our bodies and the world around us, thousands of complex processes are unfolding every moment. These are not just random chemical reactions, but a series of events organized with astonishing precision. Enzymes catalyze chemical reactions with unparalleled efficiency, DNA repair proteins detect and repair errors, and hormones send messages across enormous distances to target specific cells. These molecules, which cannot be seen with the naked eye and have no nervous systems, exhibit seemingly "conscious" behavior, carrying out their complex tasks with purpose and precision, as if they are fully aware of what they are doing.
This amazing phenomenon raises a central question at the heart of contemporary science: How can protein molecules without a nervous system carry out their tasks with such precision and purpose? How can a DNA repair enzyme, for example, distinguish between correct and incorrect nucleotides, and make a "decision" to remove only the incorrect ones?
In this article, we will dive into this perplexing question from a rigorous scientific perspective, with a logical analysis of facts and data. Not content with conventional explanations, we will go as far as modern science will allow, asking: Is there a "secret" that goes beyond purely physical explanations? Could there be intelligent design and molecular consciousness behind this ultra-precise system?
Error-correcting proteins: The Hidden Mind Inside DNA
DNA's error-correcting mechanisms are some of the finest examples of molecular precision and intelligence. Take DNA Polymerase, the enzyme responsible for DNA replication. This protein works at a staggering rate of 1,000 nucleotides per second, yet the final error rate of the transcription process is only 1 in 10^9 (one in a billion). To achieve this accuracy, the protein goes through a complex inspection process similar to a computer programmer checking code for errors:
This system is just like a smart text editor that not only detects the error, but corrects it with pinpoint accuracy. If it gets past this error, secondary correction systems such as the MMR (Mismatch Repair) system, which includes proteins such as MutS and MutL, come in for subsequent detection and correction.
The initial proofreading mechanism by the DNA polymerase enzyme acts as a very effective first line of defense, similar to the instant spelling and grammar check feature in a text editor. The MMR system, including the MutS and MutL proteins, acts as a more extensive secondary correction system, similar to a more advanced spelling and grammar checker that runs after the initial writing is done.
MutS acts as a "spell checker" in this analogy, scanning the DNA for errors (mismatched nitrogenous bases). MutL acts as a "grammar and style checker," coordinating subsequent steps to correct identified errors. MMR's ability to recognize certain types of errors (mismatches, small insertions/deletions) and coordinate a more complex repair process corresponds to the grammar checker function and secondary style in a text editor. However, it is important to note that a biological system is far more complex than a text editor, involving complex molecular interactions and regulatory mechanisms that an analogy cannot fully capture.
The "conscious" behavior of transport proteins
Inside the cell, there are complex transport systems that resemble a sophisticated addressing network that transports proteins to their correct destinations:
The traditional scientific view: is it enough?
Conventional scientific explanations offer an understanding of some of these "conscious" behaviors through basic physical and chemical mechanisms:
1. Properties of protein structure: The unique three-dimensional shape of each protein determines its function and interactions.
2. Chemical compatibility: The interaction of the active sites of proteins depends on hydrogen bonds, electrostatic interactions, and Vanderwaal forces.
3. Thermodynamics: Chemical reactions tend to occur toward a lower energy state (Gibbs free energy), which pushes reactions in a particular direction.
4. Genetic coding: Genes "program" proteins by determining the sequence of amino acids, which ultimately determines their shape and function.
But these explanations, while important, face real challenges when trying to explain the apparent subtlety and purposefulness of molecular behavior, especially when considering the genesis of these systems.
This statistical challenge prompted British physicist Fred Hoyle to comment on the issue, likening "the likelihood of a single functional protein forming by chance to the likelihood of a hurricane picking up the pieces of an entire Boeing 747 from a landfill."
The Problem of Irreducible Complexity
Another obstacle to traditional explanations is what Dr. Michael Behe calls "Irreducible Complexity" - biological systems that can only function if all of their components are present together. The blood clotting system, for example, requires dozens of proteins working together in precise sequence. If any one protein is missing, the whole system collapses. The question that arises strongly is: How can such a system evolve gradually when the intermediate stages are nonfunctional? It's like a mouse trap that only works with all of its parts together.
Beyond conventional explanations: The search for the hidden secret
The Informational Basis of Conscious Behavior: What emerges from the study of molecular behavior is that it involves complex information processing that goes beyond simple chemical reactions. Let's examine the DNA correction system one more time:
- Error sensing: The protein detects errors with an accuracy of 1 in a billion.
- Distinguishing the old from the new: Distinguishes the original chain from the new, often through chemical markers such as methylation.
- Make a decision: Removes only the erroneous section of the new chain.
- Coordination: It works with dozens of other proteins in perfect synchronization, which requires an enormous flow of information.
These processes require intelligent information processing, not just mindless chemical reactions. Meaningful and organized information, as we know it from information theory, does not arise spontaneously from random processes, but requires an intelligent source.
Quantum Entanglement and Biological Consciousness
Dr. Jack Tuszynski, a researcher in quantum biophysics, points out that "At the center of these approaches, microtubules are the structure through which conscious processes can be built via quantum entanglement and interconnectedness." (From quantum chemistry to quantum biology: a path towards consciousness", Tuszynski et al, Journal of Integrative Neuroscience, 2020). These ideas, while still under intensive research, offer new approaches to explaining the mysterious physical coordination within the cell.
When faced with a highly complex system that is perfect in its design, precise in its functioning, and processes information in a purposeful manner, the logical hypothesis put forward by some scientists is the existence of an "intelligent designer." This is a scientifically plausible conclusion based on the available data, for several reasons:
Dr. William Dembski, a mathematician and philosopher of science, developed the concept of Specified Complexity as an objective measure of intelligent design. This concept applies perfectly to biological systems: They are both complex (they have few possibilities for formation) and specific (they perform specific, life-enhancing functions) at the same time.
What Textbooks Hide: The Deep Debates
In standard molecular biology books such as "Molecular Biology of the Cell" (Albert et al.) and "Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry", the behavior of proteins is often described as "mechanistic". However, more specialized books and research discussions reveal deeper questions: Proteins are like tiny, intelligently designed nanomachines. Kinesin's mechanism for transporting cargo within the cell is beyond our ability to fully explain. It moves in calculated steps, avoids obstacles, and interacts with other proteins in a coordinated fashion that resembles advanced artificial intelligence.
In a study published in Nature in 2022 on protein folding, researchers admitted that after decades of research, we still don't fully understand how proteins fold themselves with the precision and speed we observe in a living cell. Advanced computer models like AlphaFold predict the final shape, but they can't simulate the folding process itself as accurately and quickly as what happens in the cell."
To explain the "conscious" behavior of biological molecules, several scientific and philosophical hypotheses can be put forward that do not necessarily contradict each other: 1. Built-in intelligence: Biological molecules are designed with intelligence built into their structure and functioning mechanisms, enabling them to perform their complex functions. 2. Quantum consciousness: Quantum phenomena, such as quantum entanglement, may play a role in instant and precise coordination between cell components, transcending the limits of classical chemical reactions. 3. Bioinformatics: The cell functions as an integrated information system, processing, storing, and transmitting information in highly complex ways, beyond just a set of individual chemical reactions. 4. A deeper existential level: There may be a deeper ontological level than matter, manifested in the behavior of living molecules and contributing to their complex organization.
Theoretical physicist David Bohm, in his book Wholeness and the Implicate Order, suggests that consciousness may be a fundamental property of the universe, not just a secondary phenomenon caused by the brain. He argues that the universe is an undivided whole, and each part contains information about the whole, which may explain some aspects of "conscious behavior" at the molecular level.
In my research journey, I find that this infinite complexity in the smallest parts of life is not just a random "mechanism". It speaks of a perfection of design, of a built-in intelligence that points beyond mere matter and energy. Logic tends to associate this level of organization with a conscious source. When I see proteins that correct errors with superhuman precision, transportation systems that operate with unparalleled efficiency, and cells that sacrifice themselves for the survival of the organism, I don't just see chemistry and physics. I see super-engineering but rather divine design manifested in the smallest details. This vision resonates wonderfully with what I read in the Qur'anic texts.
The Qur'an is full of verses that invite us to contemplate creation. "The work of God, who has perfected all things" [Al-Naml: 88], describes God's perfection in creating everything. This perfection is what we see embodied in every detail of the living cell, from molecules to complex systems. Science reveals to us "how" these systems work, while faith can give us answers as to "why" they exist in such splendor and perfection. Every new discovery in molecular biology does not cancel faith, but rather deepens it, adding new layers of awe and admiration in front of the greatness of the Creator who perfected everything He made. It is an ongoing journey to discover the secrets of life, and the deeper we go, the more certain we become that this universe is not the product of blind chance, but rather a shining proof of a wise design.
One of the most profound and inspiring insights in the Holy Qur'an is the comprehensive picture of the universe, not as a rigid mass of matter and energy, but as a living, conscious entity that sings the praises of its Creator and testifies to His oneness. At the core of every atom, every galaxy, every living being, lies this subtle resonance.
This verse emphasizes two profound truths: First, everything in existence, from the smallest subatomic particles to the greatest cosmic structures, praises God and testifies to His greatness. Another verse adds another dimension to this understanding:
Here, the verse emphasizes that every creature "has learned its prayer and praise", indicating that this praise is not just an instinctive mechanical action or a purely physical interaction, but a "conscious and purposeful act", commensurate with the nature of each creature. It hints at an innate realization at the core of beings, beyond the concept of known human consciousness.
In this context, the Qur'anic stories, which go beyond the familiar, offer deeper references to this cosmic consciousness. The story of the Prophet David, peace be upon him, for whom Allah made the mountains to praise with him: "And We subjected the mountains to exalt Us along with David and also the birds. And We were doing that." [Al-Anbiya: 79]. The story of our master Solomon, peace be upon him, who was given the ability to understand the language of the ants: “Until, when they came upon the valley of the ants, an ant said, ‘O ants, enter your dwellings that you not be crushed by Solomon and his soldiers while they perceive not.’” [Al-Naml: 18].
These accounts point to a real realization and consciousness in creatures, even those we consider simple, although this realization is obscured from most human beings.
Another verse refers to this universal prostration: “Do you not see that to Allah prostrates whoever is in the heavens and whoever is on the earth—and the sun, the moon, the stars, the mountains, the trees, the moving creatures—and many of the people? But upon many the punishment has been justified. And he whom Allah humiliates—there is no bestower of honor for him. Indeed, Allah does what He wills.” [Al-Hajj: 18]. Prostration here is explicitly attributed to the celestial bodies, mountains, trees and animals, an expression that goes beyond linguistic metaphor to indicate a kind of worship or true submission to the will of the Creator, who recognizes each being in its own being.
It is mind-boggling that modern science is beginning to approach philosophical and cosmological insights that closely resemble the concept of "cosmic consciousness" that the Quran referred to centuries ago. Recent theories in quantum physics, for example, especially the phenomenon of Quantum Entanglement, suggest that there is a kind of deep and indefinite interconnection between the components of the universe, regardless of the distance between them. This means that what happens to one particle can instantaneously affect another particle that is entangled with it, even if they are billions of light-years away, hinting at an underlying unity behind the separate phenomena.
Biologist and regenerative biologist Robert Lanza has gone further in his theory of Biocentrism, which proposes that consciousness is the fundamental component of the universe, not matter. In his view, consciousness is not merely a byproduct of matter, but precedes and characterizes physical existence. These theories, while still highly debated in the scientific community, indicate that science is moving toward a deeper understanding of the universe that goes beyond pure materialism.
These modern scientific theories, with their emphasis on interconnectedness, unity, and consciousness, intersect remarkably with the Qur'anic vision of a conscious universe praising God. The Qur'an affirms that every atom in this universe praises God and testifies to His oneness, and that this praise is not a mere symbol or metaphor, but a real and conscious praise that stems from the creatures' realization of their Creator's greatness and wisdom, even if we do not perceive it with our senses.
This "mind" of which Planck speaks is what we can interpret in the Islamic view as God's "command" and "cosmic will" that directs every atom in existence and makes it praise Him.
The Symphony of the Universe that I perceive
For me, I find that the concept of "cosmic consciousness" and universal praise touches on the greatest truths of existence. When I study the complexity of the genome, the precision of molecular systems, and ecological balance, I see that there is a "purpose" behind it all. It's not just blind laws; it's a symphony played with meticulous precision, and every note, from the smallest atom to the largest star, plays its part brilliantly.
I remember watching a science documentary about giant sequoia trees in the forests of California, trees that live for thousands of years. I contemplated a tree that was more than two thousand years old, and felt a strange sense that this silent creature possessed a kind of deep consciousness, communicating with its environment in ways that we don't fully realize. Years later, I read about Dr. Susan Simard's research showing that trees communicate with each other through a complex underground network of fungi, exchanging information and nutrients, and caring for their young in ways that resemble intelligence and synergy.
It immediately reminded me of the verse: "And there is nothing but that which praises its praise. Perhaps what we are discovering today about the "intelligence" of plants, the communication of organisms, and the interconnectedness of biological systems is part of this hidden praise that the Qur'an told us about centuries ago, and which we are still learning how to "understand" through the lens of science.
After reviewing the incredible complexity of the genome, the mastery of molecular systems, and the meticulous precision with which proteins behave as if they are conscious, we come to the conclusion that all this is not a mere coincidence or the result of rigid physical laws. It is part of a larger symphony, a universe that perceives and praises. It makes me realize that behind all this data, there is a deep "meaning", a great "engineer" who designed everything with perfection and omniscience. This is the miracle that manifests itself in every corner of the universe, inviting the human mind to contemplate and praise.
Cosmic Numbers Challenge: Try to visualize the meaning of the staggering numbers mentioned here (such as 10^40 or 10^123). As an illustration, if you had 10^80 atoms (the number of atoms in the observable universe) and were counting one atom every second, you wouldn't finish counting even after trillions of years!
Questions for reflection: - Why is the incredible precision of cosmological constants one of the strongest pieces of evidence for intelligent design? - Can random chance explain the fine-tuning of the universe, and why? - How does the multiverse theory fit with the concept of intelligent design?
Practical activity: Extrapolating the Universe On a clear night, go outside, away from city lights, with a simple astronomical observatory. Try to trace the paths of some planets and stars for an hour, and record your observations. Consider: 1. the extreme precision of the trajectories of these objects 2. Compare what you see with your eyes to what science tells you about huge distances and gigantic sizes 3. Imagine seeing this scene 1400 years ago, what would you conclude about the order of the universe? Write your reflections in a special notebook, and share them with your friends or in forums interested in astronomy and cosmic meditation.
Comparison activity: Compare the complexity of the simplest living cell to a modern state-of-the-art factory or supercomputer. Why is a biological system more complex than any man-made system?
Questions for reflection: - How does the idea of "irreducible complexity" challenge the theory of random evolution? - What is the difference between "evolution" and "design" of biological systems? - Why do you think DNA is the most important evidence of intelligent design?
Practical experiment: Irreducible Complexity: Get a conventional mouse trap (or watch a video explaining its construction). Try taking it apart and reassembling it. Notice how the trap only works when all the parts are present and properly arranged. Ponder: 1. can the trap work if one part is missing? 2. Could this trap evolve incrementally, with each part being added one at a time? 3. Compare this simple trap to the complexity of a bacterial flagellum with 40 integrated parts. This simple experiment brings you closer to Dr. Michael Behe's concept of "irreducible complexity".
Simulation activity: Imagine yourself as a protein within a cell responsible for a specific task. Describe your journey, the challenges you face, and how you "know" how to perform your job accurately.
Questions for reflection: - How can protein molecules perform complex functions without "consciousness" in the traditional sense? - Do you think quantum physics might offer an explanation for molecular consciousness, and how? - Why can't mathematical probabilities explain the emergence of functional proteins by chance?
Meditation exercise: Spend five minutes meditating on the idea that everything around you - from trees to rocks to distant stars - is praising God in its own way. How does this idea change your view of the world around you?
Questions for reflection: - Is the praise of creatures real or metaphorical? What is your evidence? - How can inanimate objects (such as mountains and stars) have some kind of consciousness? - What is the relationship between cosmic consciousness and intelligent design?
Biomimetic inspiration: Learning from the Creator's Design
Contemporary science is witnessing an amazing development in the field of "Biomimicry" - a science that draws inspiration from nature's designs to solve human issues. Recognizing that nature contains intelligent design opens the door to being inspired by that design. An example of this is the development of non-stick paint inspired by the structure of lotus leaves, the design of bullet trains inspired by the shape of the Japanese kingfisher's beak, and the development of strong adhesives inspired by the gecko's ability to climb on smooth surfaces.
A new view of the environment: From exploitation to respect
Understanding intelligent design in the universe changes our view of the environment from one of exploitation and materialism to one of respect and appreciation. If the entire universe - from the smallest cell to the largest galaxy - is designed with wisdom and mastery, then our treatment of it should be equally respectful. This view is fully consistent with the Islamic concept of man as a caliph on earth, responsible for its care and protection, not its depletion and destruction. The Almighty says: "And do not corrupt the earth after you have reformed it" [Al-A'raf: 56].
Teleology in the machine age: Restoring meaning to life
In an age dominated by materialism and mechanization, intelligent design offers an alternative vision that restores meaning and purpose to existence. If the universe is designed with intelligence and purpose, then our lives also have meaning and purpose.
This vision helps us transcend the spiritual alienation of modern man, reconnecting him to the universe as part of an integrated design with meaning and purpose.
Our journey through the verses of intelligent design in the universe reveals one clear truth: This amazing universe, with all its precise parameters, design, and complexity of systems, did not come about by blind chance, but is the product of an elaborate design by a wise and knowledgeable Creator. From the fine-tuning of the cosmic constants to the amazing complexity of the living cell, from the exquisite order in the movement of celestial bodies to the information encoded in DNA, all testify to the greatness of the Creator and the perfection of His workmanship.
For more than fourteen centuries, the Holy Qur'an, God's eternal book, has invited us to contemplate the Kingdom of God and His marvelous workmanship. "Say: "Look what is in the heavens and the earth" [Yunus: 101]. Because in this contemplation there is a way to know, unify and worship God.
Today, as science advances, develops its tools and deepens its discoveries, the more evidence of intelligent design in the universe increases, and the more clear are the signs of God in the horizons and in the souls. "We will show them Our signs in the horizons and in their souls until it becomes clear to them that it is the truth" [Faslat 53]
As Einstein once said: "Science without religion is lame, and religion without science is blind." Perhaps what we are witnessing in the behavior of biological molecules is a meeting point between science and faith, where scientific evidence itself points to the existence of an intelligence beyond our limited understanding.
In the end, the secret we seek may be simpler than we realize: The entire universe, from the smallest atom to the largest galaxy, is designed with superior intelligence, manifested in every part of it, testifying to the greatness of its creator.
Contemplating God's marvelous creation only increases the believer's faith and certainty, and pushes him to join the symphony of the universe in praising the Creator and testifying to his oneness. Let our motto always be what the forefathers said: "Our Lord, you have not created this in vain, praise be to you, so protect us from the punishment of the Fire" (Al-Imran 191).
If everything in this universe, from the atom to the galaxy, praises God and testifies to His oneness, how about man, God's successor on earth, whom God honored and preferred over many of His creatures, and gave him reason, instinct and will?
The great responsibility that falls on man in this universe is to consciously, willingly and voluntarily join this wonderful cosmic symphony, and to make his whole life a praise to God and a testimony to His oneness and greatness, in accordance with the words of the Almighty: "And I have not created the jinn and man except to worship me" [Al-Dhariyat 56] (Dhariyat 56)
In every atom of existence and in every pulse of the universe, the Almighty God manifests in His Kingdom, and the magnificence of His workmanship and the perfection of His creation. We only have to open our hearts and minds to witness this great divine manifestation, and repeat with every atom, cell, star and galaxy: Glory be to God, Praise be to God, Glory be to God Almighty
As the Holy Qur'an says: "There is nothing but that which praises His praise, but you do not understand their praise" [Al-Isra: 44]. Perhaps what we see of "consciousness" in molecules is only part of a comprehensive cosmic "praise", the effects of which we witness without realizing its true nature.
God knows best and is the wisest