Islam and Evolution Project

The goal is to compile a list of textual elements from the Qur'an and Hadiths that are either compatible or incompatible with current evolutionary biology, to explore their hermeneutical reconciliation, and to assess the theological consequences of forcing an evolutionary reading onto the scriptures.

This project requires:

• Establishing current understanding on evolutionary biology.
• Listing the textual elements from the Qur'an and Hadith relative to the emergence of plants, animals, and humans.
• Compiling scriptural elements that accept an evolutionary reading in their most literal meanings.
• Compiling scriptural elements that contradict with an evolutionary reading when taken at their most literal meanings.
• Exploring the possibility of taking these contradicting elements metaphorically.
• Exploring the theological implications of taking these contradicting elements metaphorically.

The listed implications are designed to help individuals depart from cultural and emotional reactionary responses and make an informed choice about the theory of evolution.

This project involves scholars in the field through discussions and interviews. The Burhan Institute will conduct recurring online debrief sessions. Subscribe to know when the next session is taking place.

This project is expected to result in one academic and one novel-based manuscript. Contributing partners will be acknowledged accordingly.