Faith in the existence and oneness of Allah does not depend upon scientific experiments or material evidence. It is a divine gift and a believer lives by this faith and prays to leave this world with it intact. Every individual is personally responsible for safeguarding his or her faith.
If someone insists on accepting the existence of Allah or the truth of religion only on the basis of scientific proof, it is wiser to avoid fruitless arguments and leave that person to his own conclusions. Allah Almighty is neither dependent upon anyone’s worship nor in need of anyone’s prayers. He is absolutely free from all needs, desires and dependencies.
Similarly, if someone argues that alcohol or pork is delicious and even if scientific studies were to support some aspect of such a claim, the response of a Muslim is straightforward: Had Islam declared them lawful, we would have used them. But since Allah has prohibited them, abstaining from them is itself an act of obedience and submission.
In recent years, particularly on social media, a growing trend has emerged to justify every teaching of Islam through scientific findings. Countless messages circulate daily, many of them without any verification.
We often encounter claims that a renowned scientist has declared fasting to be a definitive cure for cancer; that ablution (wudu) and the five daily prayers constitute a complete physical exercise program; that scientists at NASA were astonished to discover that the Qur’an had described astronomical facts centuries ago; that black seed or Ajwa dates provide certain cures for deadly diseases; or that hundreds or even thousands of people embraced Islam during an international sporting event.
Whether these claims are true or false, they cannot form the foundation of our faith. The real question is this: if science were tomorrow to deny the physical benefits of a particular act of worship, would we abandon that worship? Certainly not. Acts of worship are not performed primarily for physical or material benefits. Their true purpose is to obey the command of Allah and to seek His pleasure.
We fulfil our religious obligations because they are commanded by our Lord and because we are concerned about our eternal life in the Hereafter. If, in addition, these acts of worship bring worldly benefits such as spiritual purification, greater self-control, emotional balance, inner peace, stronger moral character and personal development then these are blessings and bonuses from Allah, not the primary objective of worship.
On the other hand, this world operates according to the law of cause and effect established by Allah Himself. Success in education, economics, politics, medicine, science and technology is not achieved through prayer alone.
It requires sustained effort, research, careful planning, sound reasoning and the application of scientific knowledge. Modern medicine offers a striking example. Many illnesses that were considered fatal only a few decades ago are now treatable, allowing patients to live longer and healthier lives.
These advancements are themselves the result of the knowledge and means that Allah has placed at humanity’s disposal.
This does not diminish the importance of prayer in any way. Rather, it defines its proper place. A believer should first employ every lawful means available, exhaust every sincere effort and make full use of the abilities and resources that Allah has granted.
Then, with humility and complete trust, he should raise his hands before Allah alone in supplication. Prayer is directed exclusively to Allah because He alone is the true Sustainer, Master and Helper.
The attitude of a believer should be this:
“O my Lord! I have exerted every effort within the limits of the intellect, strength and resources You have bestowed upon me, for it was Your command that I make use of the means You have placed in this world. Now I entrust my affairs entirely to You. By Your infinite mercy and grace, forgive my shortcomings, bless my efforts and grant me success and honour in this world and in the Hereafter.”
This is the true meaning of raising one’s hands in prayer. This is the genuine essence of tawakkul (trust in Allah). It is the balanced path that Islam teaches a path that harmonises faith, human effort and the lawful means that Allah has created.
