Friday Post 20

By Shofi Ahmed

Whether we like it or not, the future belongs to artificial intelligence (AI). We may not fully understand it, but we are already on board the AI train. Without it, our laptops and smartphones would not function properly. In other words, it is becoming the driving force of our time and beyond. The technical workings of AI are complex and enigmatic. However, even with its seemingly magical abilities, AI is not capable of fully comprehending the depth of a verse from the Qur’an. Nevertheless, we continue to strive for knowledge and understanding of both AI and the Qur’an. AI can be an aid to further understand the Qur’an.

The creative power of Allah’s words is not something that can be measured or quantified through scientific means, as it transcends the boundaries of empirical observation and rational analysis. It is a matter of faith and spiritual belief that cannot be fully understood or replicated by artificial intelligence or any other technological advancement.

Consider the following verse from the Quran, Surah Al-Fajr (The Dawn), Chapter 89, Verse 27-30:
يَا أَيَّتُهَا النَّفْسُ الْمُطْمَئِنَّةُ
ارْجِعِي إِلَىٰ رَبِّكِ رَاضِيَةً مَّرْضِيَّةً
فَادْخُلِي فِي عِبَادِي
وَادْخُلِي جَنَّتِي
“O soul that is at rest and satisfied,
Return to your Lord well-pleased (with him), well-pleasing (to Him).
So enter among My servants
And enter My Paradise.”

This verse is not just a collection of words, but it conveys deep spiritual meanings and emotions that cannot be replicated by artificial intelligence. The language used in this verse is symbolic and profound, and it speaks directly to the soul of the reader. The message it conveys is powerful and thought-provoking, inspiring the reader to reflect on their own relationship with Allah SWT and their purpose in life.

An AI program may be able to generate a collection of words with similar syntax and structure, but it will never be able to replicate the depth of meaning, spiritual significance, and emotional impact of this Quranic verse.

However, as AI is sprawling and we should leverage it to explore the Quran in depth. “Seeking knowledge is obligatory upon every Muslim.” (Sunan Ibn Majah)

This hadith emphasises the importance of seeking knowledge and understanding, both in matters of religion and in worldly affairs. While AI can provide us with tools and aid in our understanding of the Qur’an, it is ultimately up to us as Muslims to seek knowledge and deepen our understanding of our faith. The hadith encourages us to actively pursue knowledge and not simply rely on external sources, such as AI, to provide us with all the answers.