The Heart and Cardiovascular system in the Qur'an and Hadeeth

[Insaanah]

An interesting review article from the International Journal of Cardiology, May 2009.

Loukas M, et al, The heart and cardiovascular system in the Qur'an and Hadeeth, Int J Cardiol 2010 Apr 1;140(1):19-23. Epub 2009 Aug 25.

You will need to click on the plus sign that appears near the top right of the page to enlarge the text to make it readable.

An excerpt from the introduction:

Found within the Qur'an and Hadeeth are accurate descriptions of anatomical structures, surgical procedures, physiological characteristics, and medical remedies. In particular, prophylaxis of general diseases is emphasized by encouraging physical activity, herbal and organic remedies, and spiritual revitalization. Notably, within these two texts, is the emphasis on the heart and blood as both a vehicle for life and as an organ central to affecting emotion and attitude. Furthermore, the lifestyle prescribed by these Islamic traditions promotes longevity of life, prevention of cardiovascular diseases,and discourages risk factors associated with such diseases. Therefore, it is evident that the authors of the texts had a good understanding of both the etiology and pathology of many diseases of the heart and cardiovascular system.

And one from the conclusion:

In particular, specific emphasis is given to the components of the cardiovascular system. The heart is extensively described as both an organ of psyche, intelligence, and emotion, as well as an important body of the organ that can be harmed such as exhibiting thrombi. An in-depth analysis of the contribution of Islamic medicine in anatomy, physiology, and health is severely lacking in the West and, if conducted, would uncover that discoveries made by European scientists were actually made centuries prior, within the vast Islamic empire. Perhaps European scientists during the Middle Ages and beyond failed to benefit from the discoveries of the neighboring Islamic empire for multiple reasons, including poor translations[46]and the unreadiness of the medical establishment to give prominence to observation and study over the word of ancient authority[47]. As new advances in technology and medicine continue to grow at an exponential rate today, there is time to reflect and appreciate the Islamic contribution to medicine. It is for this reason that the discoveries and medical revelations in Qur'an should not be ignored or forgotten.

[marwen]

Jazakum Allah khayran sister for sharing. That's a great topic mashaAllah.

The heart is extensively described as both an organ of psyche, intelligence, and emotion, as well as an important body of the organ that can be harmed such as exhibiting thrombi.

That's an interesting secret about the heart, that many people and even many scientists ignore.

[CosmicPathos]

interesting article.

My problem is how they keep on referring to "author (s) of quran."

The supervisor of this study seems to be a Muslim i.e. Mohammadali Shoja (last name on studies is usually the supervisor). Seems to be a Muslim name. Why would he not use (pbuh) after mentioning Muhammad, and why would he keep on saying author of Quran?

[Insaanah]

My problem is how they keep on referring to "author (s) of quran."

It mentions authors (in plural) for Qur'an and hadeeth when they are both mentioned together, but for the Qur'an says this:

"The entire Qur'an is believed to be the direct word of God according to Muslims"

"Finally, the consumption of alcohol is also forbidden; although the author of the Qur'an acknowledges the benefits of alcohol, He also states that more harm than benefit exists in its consumption[38]."

And this for the hadeeth:

"The Hadeeth are the sayings, rulings, advices, actions and habits of the Prophet Mohammed which are distinct from the direct words of God."

Why would he not use (pbuh) after mentioning Muhammad

Agree with this.