The Hermetic Wisdom of Quran — Part 3 (The Cornerstone)

Introduction

This article serves as a further exploration into the series of The Hermetic Wisdom of Quran. It does also retain a standalone significance by offering insights that can be comprehended independently from the rest of the series. The focal point of this discourse lies within chapter 15 of the Quran, called Al-Hijr, which translates to The Stone. The title holds profound significance as it metaphorically alludes to The Cornerstone, and symbolizing the enigmatic concept of the Eclipsed Sun. Thus, delving into the depths of this chapter reveals a captivating mystery that warrants meticulous examination from a hermetic perspective. It is essential for the perceptive reader to explore the intricacies of language, subtle shifts in tone, and the broader stylistic composition of this chapter, as they serve as the gateway to unraveling its profound mysteries, and unveiling layers of esoteric wisdom.

From a hermetic perspective, the Cornerstone represents a metaphorical code for the profound mystery encapsulated within the solar eclipse. This celestial event, wherein the radiant sun is momentarily obscured, serves as a potent metaphor for the veiled truths that lie beyond the surface of reality. Just as the brilliance of Sun is momentarily shrouded, so too are the deeper truths of existence hidden from casual observation, awaiting the diligent inquiry of a spiritual seeker to reveal their magnificence.

In Islamic tradition, the Cornerstone finds its sacred abode within the Kaaba, the cubic sanctuary nestled in the heart of Mecca. Here, it serves as a focal point for pilgrimage and devotion, drawing countless souls in awe and reverence to the house of God at Mecca. Similarly, in Jewish lore, the Foundation Stone rests at the heart of the temple in Jerusalem, serving as a nexus of spiritual significance and historical reverence.

Throughout the annals of history, devotees of every sacred tradition have offered homage and sacrifice at the altar of their respective Cornerstones, recognizing them as expressions of cultural heritage and spiritual profundity. These revered symbols stand as testaments to the enduring quest of humanity to unravel the true meaning of existence, and they act as spiritual landmarks illuminating the path as beacons of light to guide seekers towards spiritual enlightenment.

The Power and the Purpose

Before delving into the text of the Quran, I would like the reader to be aware of certain astrological concepts because they are very essential to the understanding of symbolic language used in the Quran. As I have already mentioned, the Cornerstone metaphorically represents the eclipsed Sun. The solar eclipses occur when the Sun and the Moon conjoin together at the axis of the Lunar Nodes. The Lunar Nodes are the intersecting points of the solar and lunar orbits in the northern and southern side of the ecliptic. The Northern intersection is called the North Node or the Dragon’s Head, whilst the Southern intersection is known as the South Node or the Dragon’s Tail. The Lunar Nodes always move opposite to each other, and in the direction reverse to the motion of Luminaries (Sun and Moon) in the sky which is why their movement is called the Retrograde motion. The Luminaries always exhibit the direct motion, while the Lunar Nodes always the retrograde motion, but the five planets beside them that include Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn exhibit a combination of direct and retrograde motions according to their relative positions to the Earth. Meaning that the five planets individually have movements at times similar to the Luminaries, and at other times they resemble the Lunar Nodes. Now, what does it all mean astrologically?

The Luminaries are the symbols of power in astrology, whilst the Lunar Nodes are the symbols of purpose. The Luminaries represent the awareness that ushers humanity into the future with a better cultural design to inhabit the Earth, while the Lunar Nodes make them discover the original intent behind their creation through a deep exploration of historical experiences spanning throughout the annals of time, allowing individuals to align with their inherent destinies and fulfill their cosmic roles. The convergence of future awareness and historical insight imbues mankind with a profound objective value. The anticipation of what lies ahead empowers individuals by providing them with the drive to shape their reality, whilst an understanding of the past brings clarity regarding the purpose by infusing life with meaning and direction. Together, these forces bestow upon human endeavors a sacred and noble nature, thereby elevating them beyond mere existence to a higher plane of significance. The dynamic interplay between the pursuit of future awareness and the reverence for historical wisdom is mirrored in the direct and retrograde motions of the Luminaries and the Lunar Nodes. When the potent force of the Luminaries representing power, intersects with the purposeful influence of the Lunar Nodes, it gives rise to the awe-inspiring spectacle of a solar eclipse. Therefore, solar eclipses emerge as intensely profound trials for the integrity of human life by serving as cosmic reminders of the ongoing quest for authenticity and alignment with the true purpose of humanity, and thereby shaping the course of human destiny.

It is important to note that the Sun and Moon serve as the primary Luminaries representing the day and night respectively. The Sun embodies the influence of the six zodiac signs from Aries to Virgo during the day hours, while the Moon embodies the energy of the six zodiac signs from Libra to Pisces during the night times. Similarly, the Lunar North Node reflects the purpose associated with the six day signs, while the Lunar South Node represents the purpose of the six night signs. Thus, there happens to be a definite connection between the power of the Sun and the purpose of the North Node; and likewise, the power of the Moon aligns with the purpose of the South Node. When other planets are in direct motion within the day signs then they connect with the power of the Sun, and whenever they are in retrograde motion then they align with the purpose of the North Node. Similarly, when in direct motion within the night signs, they connect with the power of the Moon; and whenever in retrograde motion within the night signs, they align with the purpose of the South Node.

Now that we have covered the basic astrological phenomena and their symbolic meanings regarding the solar eclipses, hence we are sufficiently prepared to delve into the mysteries of chapter 15.

The Chapter 15, Al-Hijr (The Stone)

Here, The Stone is a term utilized as analogous to The Cornerstone. The Chapter 15 commences with the following verse, kindly note the tonality of language employed in this passage.

1. Alif. Lam. Ra. These are verses of the Scripture and a plain Reading.

2. It may be that those who disbelieve wish ardently that they were Muslims.

3. Let them eat and enjoy life, and let (false) hope beguile them. They will come to know!

4. And We destroyed no township but there was a known decree for it.

5. No nation can outstrip its term nor can they lag behind.

6. And they say: O thou unto whom the Reminder is revealed, lo! thou art indeed a madman!

7. Why bringest thou not angels unto us, if thou art of the truthful?

8. We send not down the angels save with the Fact, and in that case (the disbelievers) would not be tolerated.

9. Lo! We, even We, reveal the Reminder, and lo! We verily are its Guardian.

The opening verse of Chapter 15 introduces the abbreviated mystery letters: Alif. Lam. Ra. These letters, as elucidated in the introductory article of this series, signify that the chapter will delve into the complexities surrounding conflicts pertaining to wealth and community. The subsequent nine verses adopt a critical stance towards individuals who wield wealth and power without aligning themselves with a true sense of purpose. It suggests that such individuals are destined for a grim fate, as their power is inherently fragile when disconnected from its rightful purpose.

Furthermore, the verses imply condemnation for those who discredit the prophet as though being afflicted with madness. This denunciation reflects a deviation from the righteous path, stemming from a misalignment between their mental disposition and that of the divine truth presented to them by the prophet of God; and consequently, they face the impending punishment of destruction.

Metaphorically, these verses convey the notion that the linkage between power and purpose is ordained by a divine force, and as such, it is safeguarded from external threats. This suggests that those who would adhere to the harmonious fusion of power and purpose are protected by a higher authority, while those who deviate from this alignment would face perilous consequences.

13. They believe not therein, though the example of the men of old hath gone before.

14. And even if We opened unto them a gate of heaven and they kept mounting through it,

15. They would say: Our sight is wrong — nay, but we are folk bewitched.

16. And verily in the heaven we have set mansions of the stars, and We have beautified it for beholders.

17. And We have guarded it from every outcast devil,

18. Save him who stealeth the hearing, and them doth a clear flame pursue.

19. And the earth have We spread out, and placed therein firm hills, and caused each seemly thing to grow therein.

The verse 13 depicts the course of humanity towards its ultimate destiny as a continuous process fraught with trials and tribulations. This voyage encompasses the exploration of all possibilities aimed at elevating the stature of humanity. However, to grasp the significance of verses 14–19, it is essential to delve into the nature of awareness as understood within the Islamic tradition.

In the Islam tradition, angels are conceived as beings of extremely subtle light energy, while devils or jinns are beings of heat energy, albeit denser than the state of light. Humans, on the other hand, are constituted of earthly materials, characterized by their extreme density. For the knowledge or message of the angels to permeate the human mind, the subtle awareness must remain intact within an environment of great density. This endeavor entails the metamorphosis of the very earth through a process of refining and crystallization, until it resembles a luminous gem having the ability to hold and radiate light without losing its intrinsic nature. Yet, this transformation is very challenging as it requires the earth to withstand intense heat and pressure; nevertheless, the resultant gemstone possesses an innate capacity to effortlessly channel light, albeit at the cost of increased density and hardness. It must be acknowledged, however, that not every solid material possesses the radiant qualities of a gemstone. The crux of the matter lies in the fact that heat energy, being significantly less dense than earthly materials, has the potential to subvert, manipulate, or even sabotage the subtle communications of light. It achieves this by appealing to human passions, which serve as a conduit for the manifestation of heat energy within human consciousness.

Let us delve deeper into how human passions may distort the profound angelic message conveyed in verses 14–16. The message heralds the existence of a celestial pathway leading to heaven, where beholders are greeted with astonishment at the sight of magnificent mansions adorned with stars. Individuals prone to passion might respond with exclamations like, "Wow! Behold the splendid mansions adorned with stars. How breathtaking!" Yet, in this fervent reaction, the emphasis often dwells more on the stars themselves rather than the essence of the mansions they adorn. This inclination mirrors a common human tendency where attention is drawn towards the outward adornments rather than the substance they embellish. For instance, if one were to declare possession of numerous jewelry boxes, then the focus of a listener would likely be on the jewelry within the boxes rather than the empty boxes, obviously because the boxes would likely be devoid of any intrinsic value by themselves. However, the case regarding the mansions of the stars presents a contrasting scenario. Here, the stars themselves possess little inherent worth; they merely serve as decorative pieces adorning the invisible yet potent mansions representing the twelve zodiac signs along the ecliptic. Consequently, passions have the potential to deceive individuals unless they grasp a deeper realization: that God places greater importance on the beauty of souls and human integrity than on superficial physical adornments. Thus, the allure of material beauty must be transcended in favor of pursuing spiritual growth and integrity, for therein lies true fulfillment and alignment with the divine purpose of humanity.

26. Verily We created man of potter’s clay of black mud altered,

27. And the jinn did We create aforetime of essential fire.

28. And (remember) when thy Lord said unto the angels: Lo! I am creating a mortal out of potter’s clay of black mud altered,

29. So, when I have made him and have breathed into him of My Spirit, do ye fall down, prostrating yourselves unto him.

30. So the angels fell prostrate, all of them together.

31. Save Iblis. He refused to be among the prostrate.

32. He said: O Iblis! What aileth thee that thou art not among the prostrate?

33. He said: I am not one to prostrate myself unto a mortal whom Thou hast created out of potter’s clay of black mud altered!

34. He said: Then go thou forth from hence, for lo! thou art outcast.

35. And lo! the curse shall be upon thee till the Day of Judgement.

Note the repetition of the phrase "potter's clay of black mud altered" in the aforementioned verses, occurring four times within eight lines. This repetition carries significant symbolic weight, drawing attention to its profound meaning. While the creation of humanity is described in greater detail elsewhere in the Quran, the use of such remarkable terminology here warrants special consideration. The term "potter's clay" appears to denote the material's flexibility and malleability, implying its capacity to be molded and shaped. Additionally, the mention of "black mud" suggests the presence of humus or organic matter, likely originating from a delta region of a river or sea. Moreover, the inclusion of the term "altered" implies that the material is ancient, having undergone numerous phases of development in terms of texture and chemical composition, encompassing a wide array of elements found in the periodic table.

When the Lord commanded the angels to show obeisance to humanity, He essentially positioned man as the cornerstone of His creation. Due to their ethereal nature, the angels shared little affinity with human beings who existed in a material realm of density and gravity. Therefore, their obedience to the divine command was indifferently performed by them as being devoid of any real connection to their sublime state of existence. Conversely, the jinn defied the command, being of a fiery nature and possessing some semblance of affinity with human material, as fire has the tendency to ignite or consume combustible substances.

The Lord designated man as the cornerstone of His temple due to the very essence of humanity being forged from endless struggle, trauma, suffering, and sacrifices. Human existence was molded from the raw material of adversity, contorted and distorted by the forces of existence, and bearing the weight of ages of arduous trials and tribulations in the most precarious environments. Although not inherently radiant, the human essence had borne witness to the entirety of its experience. Thus, in the eyes of the omniscient Lord, man was deemed worthy of being the cornerstone and deserving of full honor. However, the honor bestowed upon humanity carries with it burdens, as reflected in the perpetual struggle with passions and the propensity for self-sabotage serving as reminders of the complexities inherent in the human condition. Yet, it is through these struggles that humanity finds its true essence, striving towards a greater self-awareness, growth, and spiritual evolution.

36. He said: My Lord! Reprieve me till the day when they are raised.

37. He said: Then lo! thou art of those reprieved.

38. Till the Day of appointed time.

39. He said: My Lord! Because Thou hast sent me astray, I verily shall adorn the path of error for them in the earth, and shall mislead them every one,

40. Save such of them as are Thy perfectly devoted slaves.

41. He said: This is a right course incumbent upon Me:

42. Lo! as for My slaves, thou hast no power over any of them save such of the froward as follow thee,

43. And lo! for all such, hell will be the promised place.

44. It hath seven gates, and each gate hath an appointed portion.

45. Lo! those who ward off (evil) are among gardens and watersprings.

46. (And it is said unto them): Enter them in peace, secure.

47. And We remove whatever rancour may be in their breasts. As brethren, face to face, (they rest) on couches raised.

48. Toil cometh not unto them there, nor will they be expelled from thence.

49. Announce, (O Muhammad) unto My slaves that verily I am the Forgiving, the Merciful,

50. And that My doom is the dolorous doom.

In verse 44, the depiction of the seven gates of hell symbolizes the misuse of power associated with the seven planets, deviating from their intended purpose. The seven planets represent various aspects of cosmic influence and power, each with its own unique energies and characteristics. When these powers are misused or diverted from their intended paths, they contribute to the creation of infernal conditions. This deviation from the harmonious alignment of power and purpose leads to dire consequences, metaphorically represented by the seven gates of hell.

On the other hand, when individuals live in alignment with their conscience being guided by moral principles and ethical conduct then they are able to harness the cosmic energies in a constructive manner. In such cases, the synergy between power and purpose leads to favorable outcomes, suggesting that true happiness and prosperity stem from living in harmony with cosmic principles of nobler moral values and higher spiritual ideals. The subsequent verses within this context are particularly fascinating.

51. And tell them of Abraham’s guests,

52. (How) when they came in unto him, and said: Peace. He said: Lo! we are afraid of you.

53. They said: Be not afraid! Lo! we bring thee good tidings of a boy possessing wisdom.

54. He said: Bring ye me good tidings (of a son) when old age hath overtaken me? Of what then can ye bring good tidings?

55. They said: We bring thee good tidings in truth. So be not thou of the despairing.

56. He said: And who despaireth of the mercy of his Lord save those who are astray?

57. He said: And afterward what is your business, O ye messengers (of Allah)?

58. They said: We have been sent unto a guilty folk,

59. (All) save the family of Lot. Them we shall deliver every one,

60. Except his wife, of whom We had decreed that she should be of those who stay behind.

The narrative describing the birth of a boy endowed with wisdom and the subsequent downfall of the guilty, resonates deeply with the alchemical concept regarding the regeneration of life from the ashes of dead, often associated with solar eclipses. Just as the celestial event marks the temporary obscuration of the sun to symbolize an end followed by a new beginning; so too does the revelation of wisdom and the demise of the guilty would signal a transformative shift in the cosmic order of the universe.

The elderly and frail physical state of Abraham serves as a testament to the resilience of righteousness in the face of adversity. Despite his vulnerability, his unwavering moral integrity shields him from despair, highlighting the enduring power of righteousness to transcend the limitations of the physical world. Conversely, the downfall of the guilty despite of their self-assured confidence in their power, underscores the inevitable consequences of moral corruption and spiritual bankruptcy.

In this cosmic drama, the solar eclipse emerges as a metaphorical cornerstone for aligning earthly affairs with celestial harmony. It cuts through the malignant forces that threaten the well-being of noble lives by causing a surgical intervention for purging the subversive influences and restoring equilibrium to the cosmic balance; since the inherent goodness of humanity can only endure after the eradication of corruption, and thereby allowing the virtues of integrity, compassion, and righteousness to truly flourish in the world.

A significant factor to note in this chapter is its intriguing correlation with the fixed signs of the zodiac, suggesting a symbolic resonance between their steadfast nature and the enduring quality of the Cornerstone. The narrative of Abraham receiving unexpected news of a wise son in his old age mirrors the traits of unpredictability often associated with the fixed sign of Aquarius, challenging conventional expectations and defying limitations. Conversely, the guilty inhabitants of Sodom embody the darker manifestations of Scorpio, thus representing corruption and moral decay in a society. In the subsequent narratives, we shall also notice the metaphorical references to the signs of Taurus and Leo as well.

61. And when the messengers came unto the family of Lot,

62. He said: Lo! ye are folk unknown (to me).

63. They said: Nay, but we bring thee that concerning which they keep disputing,

64. And bring thee the Truth, and lo! we are truth-tellers.

65. So travel with thy household in a portion of the night, and follow thou their backs. Let none of you turn round, but go whither ye are commanded.

66. And We made plain the case to him, that the root of them (who did wrong) was to be cut at early morn.

73. Then the (Awful) Cry overtook them at the sunrise.

74. And We utterly confounded them, and We rained upon them stones of heated clay.

75. Lo! therein verily are portents for those who read the signs.

The family of Lot were instructed to travel during the night, but forbidden to turn round to see anything in the darkness of the night. The question is whatever could they have witnessed in the darkness of the night invites contemplation on the mysteries concealed within darkness; suggesting thereby if there were indeed anything in dark at all, as the morning or sunrise might well have been a symbolic allusion to the solar eclipse. However, the impending punishment does not necessarily need to wait for the literal break of dawn, as such daily occurrences happen to be a normal routine phenomena; instead, it may well signify a metaphorical dawn of renewal heralded by the eclipse of the Sun.

Furthermore, the directive to follow the backs of the guilty without looking back aligns with the astrological significance of solar eclipses, which often demand radical actions to purge oneself from the remnants of past transgressions. The vivid depiction of destruction includes an ominous cry followed by a barrage of heated stones, thus expressing the massive magnitude of divine retribution. The destruction not only targets the leaders of the guilty but also extends to every inanimate object in the vicinity, emphasizing the gravity of divine retribution and the uncompromising nature of the divine plan.

This narrative serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of moral decay and disobedience to divine will, whence the divine forces transcending mere dispensation of justice to exacting vengeance; hence, illustrating the profound consequences that unfold when divine vengeance is ultimately unleashed on the guilty; and with more examples of divine justice unfolding in the subsequent verses.

78. And the dwellers in the wood indeed were evil-doers.

79. So we took vengeance on them; and lo! they both are on a high-road plain to see.

80. And the dwellers in Al-Hijr (The Stone) denied (Our) messengers.

81. And we gave them Our revelations, but they were averse to them.

82. And they used to hew out dwellings from the hills, (wherein they dwelt) secure.

83. But the (Awful) Cry overtook them at the morning hour,

84. And that which they were wont to count as gain availed them not.

The reference to ‘the dwellers in the wood’ in the Quran pertains to the inhabitants of Midian, a city whose downfall was precipitated by their rampant greed and pursuit of material wealth at the expense of ethical integrity. The association of wood with plants evokes images of growth, abundance, and vitality, reflecting the inherent qualities of the Taurus archetype. Taurus, as a zodiac sign, symbolizes stability, resourcefulness, and the fruitful cultivation of material resources. However, when these qualities are taken to the extremes; they can give rise to avarice, greed, and the exploitation of natural resources for the selfish motives of corrupt individuals. Hence, 'the dwellers in the wood' here embody the darker aspects of the Taurus archetype, epitomizing the pitfalls of excessive materialism and monetary malfeasance in a society.

Similarly, the sign of Leo embodies qualities of charisma, strength, and leadership; but when these qualities are corrupted by pride and arrogance, they can lead to tyranny and oppression. The mention of Al-Hijr, or The Stone, in connection with Leo symbolizes the notion of solidity and immovability, reflecting the entrenched nature of their corruption. The Stone carries connotations of permanence and endurance, suggesting that the corruption of 'the dwellers in Al-Hijr' has become deeply ingrained within the fabric of their society, and thereby permeating every aspect of their lives. Like a stone, they were unyielding and resistant to change, obstinately clinging to their positions of power and authority regardless of the consequences. Their arrogance and sense of entitlement had blinded them to the suffering of others, leading them to justify their actions through self-righteousness and moral relativism. The Stone can also serve as a symbol of isolation and separation, indicating the alienation of 'the dwellers in Al-Hijr' from the divine principles of justice, compassion, and humility. In their pursuit of power and dominance, they had become disconnected from the spiritual truths that govern the universe, leading them down a path of moral decay and spiritual impoverishment.

The downfall of these groups, despite their perceived power and influence, highlights a profound truth about the nature of reality: nothing in the material realm is immune to the dictum of time. The apparent strength and dominance they wielded were merely transient illusions, fated to fade away in the face of the timeless forces of destiny. This is emblematic of the broader cosmic principle of justice, wherein the universe operates according to a harmonious order that transcends individual desires and ambitions. In the grand scheme of existence, actions motivated by greed, arrogance, or corruption inevitably incur consequences, as the universe strives towards equilibrium and moral rectitude. Thus, the downfall of these groups serves as a stark reminder of the inherent balance and justice woven into the fabric of universe, where divine providence ultimately prevails over human ignorance.

Furthermore, the metaphorical allusion to 'the morning hour' as symbolizing the solar eclipse adds another layer of depth to the narrative. Just as the eclipse temporarily obscures the brilliance of the sun, so too does it symbolize a period of darkness and upheaval before the emergence of a new dawn. In this context, the solar eclipse serves as a potent metaphor for the inherent potential within moments of darkness and disruption. Just as the eclipse marks a temporary obscuration of light, so too do periods of upheaval in human experience signify opportunities for growth, introspection, and rebirth. It is during these times of darkness that the seeds of change are sown, paving the way for the emergence of new beginnings and the realization of untapped potential for spiritual growth. Hence, the solar eclipse becomes a symbol of hope amidst adversity, a harbinger from the inevitability of change, and the promise for a brighter tomorrow; whence moments of darkness are not meant to be feared but rather embraced as catalysts for spiritual evolution.

85. We created not the heavens and the earth and all that is between them save with truth, and lo! the Hour is surely coming. So forgive, (O Muhammad), with a gracious forgiveness.

86. Lo! Thy Lord! He is the All-Wise Creator.

87. We have given thee seven of the oft-repeated (verses) and the great Qur’an.

88. Strain not thine eyes toward that which We cause some wedded pairs among them to enjoin, and be not grieved on their account, and lower thy wing (in tenderness) for the believers.

89. And say: Lo! I, even I, am a plain warner,

90. Such as We send down for those who make division,

91. Those who break the Qur’an into parts.

92. Them, by thy Lord, We shall question, every one,

93. Of what they used to do.

94. So proclaim that which thou art commanded, and withdraw from the idolaters.

It is remarkable how frequently the planets and the zodiac are referenced, either directly or metaphorically, throughout this chapter. The imagery of the stairway to heaven in verse 14 symbolizing planetary orbits, the mention of mansions of stars in verse 16 representing the zodiac, and the depiction of the seven gates of hell in verse 44 portraying the malevolent aspects of planetary influences, all highlight the celestial themes presented in the chapter. Moreover, the phrase 'seven of the oft-repeated (verses)' in verse 87 signifies the orbital movements of the seven planets, while 'the great Qur’an' symbolizes the zodiac. This verse serves as a hermetic code, portraying the seven planets as the seven oft-repeated verses, and the Quran as the ecliptic of the zodiac that provides space for the movement of those planets; thereby suggesting a resonance between the teachings of the Quran and the cosmic rhythms generated by the heavenly design to guide the course of humanity on earth.

The verses 85–94 epitomize the essence of hermetic wisdom, embodying qualities of clarity and unity that distinguish them as profound revelations. In verse 85, the union of the heavens, earth, and all that lies between them under the banner of truth encapsulates a cosmic harmony; where truth itself is expressed through the Hour of destiny as signifying the culmination of divine purpose. The verse 88 employs the powerful imagery of wedded pairs to symbolize the integration of complementary forces within the cosmos. These pairs, such as the Sun and the Moon can also be metaphorically extrapolated to represent night and day, mind and body, thought and action, force and movement, order and design; hence, symbolizing the fundamental principles that govern the very existence of life. Any attempt to disturb the harmony between these pairs would be akin to fragmenting the Quran, and could lead to discord and imbalance by disrupting the natural order of the universe.

This concept underscores the interconnectedness of all phenomena, and the necessity of maintaining equilibrium and unity in the universal dance of life. It emphasizes the importance of wisdom in recognizing and preserving this unity, as the fragmentation of cosmic principles could lead to spiritual and moral decay. Thus, humanity is called upon to cultivate ever-deeper levels of wisdom to navigate the complexities of existence through upholding the integrity of cosmic harmony.

The End Note

Humans seek to find meaning in their existence through a psychological quest for survival by instinctively clinging to sacred symbols with fervent adoration and devotion. These symbols unite them in shared passions and common goals by becoming intrinsic aspects of their defining nature. Whether willingly embraced or imposed upon them, such bonds inevitably shape individuals by preparing them to merge into the greater whole of their environment.

For example, gemstone rings and symbolic markings have historically served as emblems of fraternity among people separated by great distances, and yet united by their shared ideals. Such attachments also bestow a greater level of recognition to the man, that he is a part of something bigger than himself, and that frequently induces him to bring forth the best in himself. However, the history is all that we have, and all that we shall ever have, unless we prove ourselves worthy enough by making the right physical, intellectual, and spiritual efforts to deserve the future. The Cornerstone of Islam, which is the black stone placed in Kaaba serves to connect the earliest aspirations of Islamic ideals to the realization of its sublime design lurking way ahead on the horizon of its grand future. I should conclude this article by citing the following verses from the Quran.

But when sight is confounded. And the moon is eclipsed. And sun and moon are united, On that day man will cry: Whither to flee! Alas! No refuge! Unto thy Lord is the recourse that day. On that day man is told the tale of that which he hath sent before and left behind. Oh, but man is a telling witness against himself, Although he tender his excuses. (Chapter 75, Verses 7–15)