JEDDAH, 5 July — While emphasizing the role of knowledge in life, Islam as a religion helps man develop a scientific and analytical attitude. The Holy Qur’an encourages people to reach out and acquire knowledge on everything in the universe. This was the theme of a lecture by visiting Indian expert on Islam and science, Dr. Muhammad Aslam Parvaiz.
He was addressing a well-attended gathering on Wednesday at the Saudi-German Hospital auditorium here. Dr. Parvaiz, who is also an eminent ecologist, was invited by the Forum for Promotion of Education.
Supporting his theory with verses from the Qur’an, Dr. Parvaiz said people in general and Muslims in particular are required to ponder over each and every natural phenomenon which are described as "Allah’s Ayaat" — signs.
He said Muslims are duty-bound to turn to the Qur’an and understand its deeper meaning so as to be able to take its message far and wide.
Khaled Al-Maeena, editor in chief of Arab News, sent in a message written by him in Urdu which was read out at the meeting.
He commended the efforts being made by Dr. Parvaiz to promote scientific education among Indian Muslims.
The program, presided over by Shams Tabrez, outgoing principal of International Indian School, Jeddah, was conducted by Shaheen Nazar of Saudi Gazette.
Dr. Parvaiz is the founding editor of Urdu Science Monthly published in Delhi. Urdu Science is a specialized magazine which seeks to promote science education among Urdu-speaking people in India.
