It is also established that the fundamental aims of the Qur'an and its essential elements, which pervade all parts of it, are four- fold. They are proof of the Single Maker, prophethood, bodily resurrection, and justice. That is to say, it is only the Qur'an that can supply decisive answers to the questions posed to the universe by science (hikmet): [^3] "Tell me, O universe, where do you come from and at whose command? Who is your ruler? Who is your guide and your spokesman? What will you do here and where will you go afterwards?" Accordingly, apart from in connection with its main aims, mention of the universe in the Qur'an is digressive; it should lead by way of deductive reasoning (istidlâl) from the order of its art to the Glorious Maker. Yes, order is apparent; in its perfect clarity it is self-evident. Its art testifies decisively to the Maker's existence, intention, and will, and shows itself in every facet of the universe, displaying the shining beauty of its creation to the gaze of science. It is as though every creature is a tongue extolling the Maker's wisdom, and every species and realm of being raises its finger, testifying and pointing to it. Since the purpose is this, and since we are learning the signs and indications of the order from the book of the universe, and since the conclusions are all the same; how the universe is actually formed does not concern us. However, each being that enters the lofty council of the Qur'an is charged with four duties:

[^3]:For the term hikmet, see, note at the end of the Publisher's Preface.

The First: To proclaim through its conforming with the order, the sovereignty of the Pre-Eternal Monarch.

The Second: Since each is the subject of a true science (fenn-i hakikî), it is to show that Islam is the sum and substance of the true sciences.

The Third: Since each is a sample of its species, to prove that Islam is in conformity with the divine laws and principles in force in the universe, and corresponds to them. Then Islam may grow and flourish through the assistance of those natural laws. Yes, in this respect the clear religion of Islam is far superior to other religions,