The Pleiades: A Symbol of Supreme Knowledge

In the night sky, far beyond the reach of the human eye, a cluster of stars shines—the Pleiades. For early Arabs, this cluster, called الثريا (Thurayya), represented the most distant and unattainable point. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

«لو كانَ العِلمُ بالثُّريّا لَتَناوَلَهُ رِجالٌ مِن فارِسَ»
"If knowledge were in Thurayya (the Pleiades), men from Persia would surely attain it."

This statement is not merely praise for the Iranian people; it reflects the eternal human quest for knowledge—a boundless horizon where effort and perseverance define the journey.

Philosophy of Science and the Path of Inquiry

Science is never static. It is not simply the accumulation of facts but a process of discovery, analysis, and understanding. Every discovery is a single point in a vast horizon, and the path toward knowledge is often more meaningful than the destination itself. This hadith reminds us that even the highest forms of knowledge are within reach for those who pursue it with dedication. Science is, therefore, a living, evolving journey that requires curiosity, rigor, and a willingness to explore the unknown. Each step along the path illuminates new possibilities and invites continuous refinement of understanding.

Human Aspiration and Scientific Endeavor

The Pleiades represents human ambition. The seeker of truth is like an astronaut gazing at a distant star: the journey is long and difficult, yet the pursuit itself holds great value. The metaphor emphasizes the importance of setting ambitious goals, maintaining perseverance, and appreciating the journey itself. It inspires generations of young researchers to aim high and reminds them that every small progress is part of a greater continuum of knowledge.

Celebrating Iranians in the Pursuit of Knowledge

From the Achaemenids to the Sassanids, Iran has nurtured a rich tradition of valuing wisdom, philosophy, and learning. This cultural foundation created fertile ground for scholars to emerge, and during the Islamic Golden Age, Iran became a hub for scientific and intellectual activity. The Prophet’s hadith acknowledges this potential, highlighting that talent and diligence, rather than circumstances alone, define the attainment of knowledge. The lessons of this teaching remain practical and ethical: perseverance is essential, knowledge is a lifelong pursuit, and the opportunity to contribute to human understanding is universal.

Knowledge as a Distant Star

Knowledge is always beyond immediate reach, like the distant Pleiades. The phrase “men of Persia” symbolizes all seekers of knowledge rather than a specific ethnic group. Each discovery serves as a light guiding others, broadening the horizon of understanding. The pursuit of science demands observation, experimentation, and continuous reflection. Every scientific advance represents a small but meaningful step in an infinite journey, reminding us that true knowledge is never fully contained or complete.

Classical Iranian Scholars and the Realization of the Hadith

• Muhammad ibn Musa al-Khwarizmi (780–850 CE): Founder of algebra, also a pioneer in astronomy and calendrical studies. His work still underpins modern mathematics.
• Abu Rayhan al-Biruni (973–1048 CE): Polymath whose contributions to astronomy, mathematics, geography, and history exemplify rigorous interdisciplinary research.
• Avicenna (Ibn Sina) (980–1037 CE): Physician and philosopher, blending theory and practice; his works influenced both Islamic and Western thought.
• Omar Khayyam (1048–1131 CE): Mathematician and astronomer, innovator in algebra and creator of the highly precise Jalali calendar.
• Ghiyath al-Din Jamshid Kashani (1380–1429 CE): Expanded algebra and fractional concepts, shaping foundations for modern mathematics and engineering.

Knowledge for Humanity, Not Power

Louis Pasteur once said, “Science knows no borders.” Yet in today’s world, knowledge is sometimes treated as a tool for power rather than a human good. Researchers may be undervalued, overlooked, or even targeted, despite their contributions. Protecting those who seek truth is essential; science must serve humanity and society, not the ambitions of the powerful. When knowledge is used for domination rather than human progress, both society and scientific development suffer. The ethical responsibility to safeguard scholars and promote learning as a universal good is as important as the discoveries themselves.

Nuclear Scientists and the Perseverance of Science

In recent decades, Iranian nuclear scientists have faced targeted attacks, including bombings and assaults, often in residential areas, tragically endangering families. Such actions are rare in modern history and clearly violate international human rights standards. Yet, despite these threats, research and scientific progress have continued. The resilience of the scientific community demonstrates that even violence cannot halt the pursuit of knowledge. New generations of scholars carry forward this mission, proving that science endures through dedication and collective effort. If such actions are ignored or normalized by international and scientific communities, the consequences could be dire; every scientist, in any field, might become vulnerable, often along with their families and communities—a situation unprecedented in human history.

Conclusion: The Infinite Horizon of Knowledge

The Prophet’s hadith (peace be upon him) stands as a testament to the talent, perseverance, and resilience of Iranians in the pursuit of knowledge. Like the Pleiades, knowledge stretches toward an infinite horizon, and those who seek truth expand the boundaries of understanding through effort and determination. History confirms the enduring truth of this prophecy: no obstacle—however daunting, including inhumane assassinations—has ever halted the flow of Persian scholars striving toward Thurayya. When knowledge is pursued ethically and for the benefit of humanity, it continues to illuminate the path forward, proving that dedication and intellect can transcend even the gravest challenges.

References

• Wikipedia contributors. (2024). Various entries. Wikipedia.
• Nasr, S. H. (1968). Science and Civilization in Islam. Harvard University Press.
• Ibn Khaldun. Muqaddimah.
• Popper, K. (1963). Conjectures and Refutations. Routledge.
• Zarrinkoub, A. Kārnāmeh-ye Islām.