Structure of Scientific Revolution
PS – not yet a model of understanding mature enough to solve the problem
NS – The step where you can routinely solve your most important issues; the paradigm is defined, and
items match up with the parameters (assumptions) defined by the paradigm.
MD – When the issues, problems, phenomenon appear that the model cannot handle. The problem
may have changed, or how the solution is managed or both.
MC – The foundation for solving the central problem has been shattered by discovery of too many
anomalies that the theory cannot explain.
MR – One or more competing new models emerge from the crisis. [The search for a New Model
that Works step]. It’s a revolution because the old model is so entrenched into the mental habits/
lifestyles that a new way of thinking is incomprehensible. The length of this process is minimized if the
consequences of failing to find a new model are fatal. [Almost always rocky]
PC – The new Paradigm is taught to newcomers in the field as well as those in it. When the paradigm
becomes the generalldy accepted guide to work, the step is complete and we go to NS
Why change is slow: People/systems resist change – they change when forced to or when there’s a
strong advantage.
2 paradigms are never seen as equal, or comparable, because each side uses their own parameters to
define the respective paradigm.
120. Never will the Jews nor the Christians be pleased with you (O Muhammad ) till you follow their
religion. Say: "Verily, the guidance of Allah (i.e. Islamic Monotheism) that is the (only) guidance.
And if you (O Muhammad ) were to follow their (Jews and Christians) desires after what you
have received of Knowledge (i.e. the Qur'an), then you would have against Allah neither any Wali
(protector or guardian) nor any helper.)
(121. Those to whom we gave the Book recite it as it should be recited (Yatlunahu Haqqa Tilawatihi)
they are the ones who believe therein. And whoso disbelieve in it, those are they who are the
losers.)
There are 2 or more paradigms in existence – Mohammed’s (S) is correct.
Present tense - The will never be agreement
Who so ever conforms to any other paradigm will have no protector helper – directed at the Prophet (S)
however the ruling applies to all of us.
Who is Al Lathena? Varying opinion – either Xtians/Jews or Companions of the Prophet (S) – however,
this line is explaining that there should only be one paradigm to begin with.
Ibn Mas`ud said, "By He in Whose Hand is my soul! The right Tilawah is allowing what it makes
lawful, prohibiting what it makes unlawful, reciting it as it was revealed by Allah, not changing the
words from their places, and not interpreting it with other than its actual interpretation.''
(122. O Children of Israel! Remember My favor which I bestowed upon you and that I preferred you
over the nations).) (123. And fear the Day (of Judgement) when no person shall avail another, nor
shall compensation be accepted from him, nor shall intercession be of use to him, nor shall they be
helped.)
Ya Bani – this topic was opened up with this address earlier on in the Surah. Now it is concluded with
the similar phrase. Towards the opening of the topic, it explains how they were tested with trials;
They think they have a special rank because trials they went through… however there was someone
selected before you with trials. However – he completed/passed his test… and look at the honor given
to him – ‘I am making you an Imam’
Previously in Al Baqarah, the historical span covered was from the era of Musa (S) to the Prophet(S).
However there are still issues with their paradigm. So this next section we go back to Abraham – as
starting at the commonalities would be the best way to address the parameters of the paradigm. This
will be the end to the debate concerning their history and religious conduct
Allah says – lets examine the parameters of your paradigm – where do the parameters line up –
With Abraham.
Your preference and receipt of Prophet after Prophet is a result of the dua made by Ibrahim.
The reward and honor was to be an Imam over all people!
We are being tested – do we know the results – NO. Ibrahim did so well he was told he passed!
(124. And (remember) when the Lord of Ibrahim (Abraham) tried him with (certain) commands,
which he fulfilled. He (Allah) said (to him), "Verily, I am going to make you an Imam (a leader) for
mankind (to follow you).'' (Ibrahim) said, "And of my offspring (to make leaders).'' (Allah) said, "My
covenant (prophethood) includes not Zalimin (polytheists and wrongdoers).'')
Dhuriah means not only children…
When you are a leader, you are responsible for the people under you – hence Ibrahim was made
Imam – he understood the responsibility and asked about his children!! This is the spirit we need to
have with our families – ask all to make us an Imam of a family with taqwa – end of surah Al Furqan
Allah’s response – My promise does not extend to wrongdoers…. Implying that some of his children
will be wrong doers. A fact is simply that there will exist other paradigms.
Ibrahim takes that info, and will make dua to address these.
(125. And (remember) when We made the House (the Ka`bah at Makkah) a place of resort for
mankind and a place of safety. And take you (people) the Maqam (place) of Ibrahim (or the stone
on which Ibrahim as a place) (125. And We commanded Ibrahim (Abraham) and Isma`il (Ishmael)
that they should purify My House (the Ka`bah at Makkah) for those who are circumambulating it, or
staying (I`tikaf), or bowing or prostrating themselves (there, in prayer).)
Subtle reference about how the masjid is imperative to the development of your family
This also forshadows the kibla change to come
Ismail is introduce as a response to Ibrahims asking about his progeny – Both shall purify my house.
What should we be doing with our son – make the service of Allah’s house a father/son thing!
126 – Ibrahim asks again – make Makkah safe and prosperous – the foresight of Ibrahim who made
this dua when Makkah was just a dessert!! He thought of future generations – then he thought of
how they will live. Ibrahim knew that the direct opposition of peace and prosperity were the people
who don’t believe – hence he only wanted to peace and prosperity to those who belived
(126. And (remember) when Ibrahim said, "My Lord, make this city (Makkah) a place of security
and provide its people with fruits, such of them as believe in Allah and the Last Day.'' He (Allah)
answered: "As for him who disbelieves, I shall leave him in contentment for a while, then I shall
compel him to the torment of the Fire, and worst indeed is that destination!'')
Allah answers – don’t think that the wrong doers will vanish – Nope. The paradigm will exist.
Ibrahim would modify the dua based on the previous answers.
Ibrahim’s dua are not about himself – they are about future generations.
