Introducing Islam a Simple Introduction to Islam
What is Truth?
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can never attain to cosmic knowledge, so that he
cannot conceive of an accurate idea of reality.
Science has never claimed to be in a position to
explain the truth. It only looks into matters which
can be repeatedly proved experimentally. Science
discusses the chemistry of flowers, but not their
fragrance, for the chemical parts of a flower can be
analysed; its odour cannot. Science has itself
restricted its scope, making it clear that it will deal
only with partial truth and is in no position to
expound on universal realities.
Some spiritual adepts claim, or their followers
believe, that they know all about truth, and can
communicate absolute information concerning it,
but their belief is groundless. They claim to have
reached the truth by means of spiritual disciplines.
The so-called spiritual disciplines are in fact of a
physical nature, and spiritual discovery by means
of physical discipline is an unfeasible proposition in
itself. Secondly, no spiritual adept is free of the
limitations to which all men are subject. The
obstacles which prevent others from reaching a full
understanding of truth also block his path. No self-
