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History Quote by Fazlur Rahman

“the Qur’ān appears to be interested in three types knowledge for man. One is the knowledge of nature which has been made subservient to man, i.e., the physical sciences. The second crucial type is the knowledge of history (and geography): the Qur’ān persistently asks man to "travel on the earth"…” quote by Fazlur Rahman
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““the Qur’ān appears to be interested in three types knowledge for man. One is the knowledge of nature which has been made subservient to man, i.e., the physical sciences. The second crucial type is the knowledge of history (and geography): the Qur’ān persistently asks man to "travel on the earth" and see for himself what happened to bygone civilizations and why they rose and fell. The third is the knowledge of man himself.””

Fazlur Rahman

About This Quote

Source Qur’an: The Holy Book of Islam, 7th century CE

The passage outlines three categories of knowledge emphasized in the Qur’an: natural sciences, historical/geographical awareness, and self‑knowledge, urging humans to explore and understand each.

In simple terms: The Qur’an values science, history, and self‑understanding.

Key Takeaway

Seek knowledge in nature, history, and yourself.

Themes

knowledge exploration self‑awareness spirituality

Mood

inquisitive motivated

Type

educational reflective

When to use this quote

  • academic study
  • travel
  • personal development
  • interfaith dialogue
  • historical research

Key Concepts

Islamic thought epistemology education

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you balance scientific, historical, and personal learning?
  • What barriers exist to integrating these knowledge types?
A Different Perspective

Focusing only on one type may limit holistic growth.

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