5D Magazine - Issue 8

5D

5D

Timeless Success Principles Through the 5D Lens Dr. Necati Aydin Embracing 5D Thinking: A Journey of Discovery Hassen Vally Do We Need Our Creator for Guidance?

Dr. Ali Mermer

www.5dthinking.org

Are We Speaking a Worldview Without Knowing It? Ms. Uzma Ahmed Insights on Level-2 5D Thinking Training in Istanbul Ms. Betul Koser Level-2 5D Training - the 2nd step in “eye-opening surgery” Shila Razlan Decoding the Divine in the Digital Aisha Alowais

THINKING MAGAZINE March - April 2025 | Issue 8

GET YOUR 5D WORKBOOKS HERE!

CLICK ON THIS LINK OR SCAN THE QR CODE TO GET YOUR COPY!

5D

5D Thinking Model Workbook Series

HARTFORD IIK PRESS

TABLE OF

CONTENTS FEATURES: INSIGHTS & REFLECTIONS The 'Breath of the All-Merciful – Dr. Colin Turner Embracing 5D Thinking: A Journey of Discovery – Hassen Vally Who Are the Real Losers of Deeds? – Dr. Necati Aydin Timeless Success Principles Through the 5D Lens – Dr. Necati Aydin Decoding the Divine in the Digital – Ms. Aisha Alowais Do We Need Our Creator for Guidance? – Dr. Ali Mermer

Reflections from Madinah: A Gathering for the Future of Islamic Education - Ms. Uzma Ahmed Level 2 5D Thinking Training - the 2nd step in “eye-opening surgery” - Ms. Shila Razlan

5D TRAINING & EVENTS The 5th Istanbul Workshop for Transformative Teaching: Ms. Nadine Kamal Insights on Level-2 5D Thinking Trainings in Istanbul: A New Chapter in Purposeful Education – Ms. Betul Koser 5D Thinking Training Events

YOUR WORDS, YOUR WORLD Are We Speaking a Worldview Without Knowing It? – Ms. Uzma Ahmed

ANNOUNCEMENTS 5D Science Fair 2025 The Grade 4 Science Workbook is Now Available!

Introducing the Science Secrets in 5 Steps 5D Curriculum Existence and Meaning Program 5D Training Level 1 is open for registration 5D Training Level 2 is open for registration

EDITOR’S LETTER Dear Readers, Welcome to the eighth issue of the 5D magazine!

This issue brings together a rich collection of reflections, practical insights, and educational highlights that embody the essence of 5D Thinking. This approach nurtures purposeful learning, spiritual awareness, and intellectual growth.

We begin with profound and thought-provoking contributions in our Features section. Dr. Colin Turner invites us to reflect on divine presence in The 'Breath of the All-Merciful, while Hassen Vally shares a personal journey in Embracing 5D Thinking. Dr. Necati Aydin offers moral insight into the real losers of deeds—and Timeless Success Principles Through the 5D Lens. Aisha Alowais explores modern challenges in Decoding the Divine in the Digital, and Dr. Ali Mermer returns with a timely reflection in Do We Need Our Creator for Guidance? Moreover, Shila Razlan reflects on her 5D Level 2 training.

In Your Words, Your World, Uzma Ahmed raises a compelling question in Are We Speaking a Worldview Without Knowing It?, encouraging readers to reflect on the assumptions behind the words we use.

This issue's training and event highlights recent milestones in purposeful education. Nadine Kamal reports from the 5th Istanbul Workshop for Transformative Teaching, while Betul Köser shares reflections from the Istanbul Level 2 Training. Discover 5D Thinking Training Events online and ensure upcoming opportunities for continued growth and engagement.

We're also pleased to share several announcements from our Publications Department. The newly released Grade 4 Science Workbook is now available. We also look forward to the 5D Science Fair 2025 and welcome the release of the Existence and Meaning Program.

Whether you're exploring these ideas for the first time or continuing your journey with us, we hope this issue provides both inspiration and direction. Thank you for being part of the 5D Thinking community, where knowledge and meaning intersect to inspire new perspectives.

Warm regards, On behalf of the 5D Thinking Team, Aisha Alowais

FEATURES: INSIGHTS & REFLECTIONS

'BREATH OF ALL-MERCIFUL’ Dr. Colin Turner

The 'breath of the All-Merciful' (nafas al-Rahman) is that through which the Creator produces His 'spoken words', and His 'spoken words' become manifest in the visible world as the 'book of creation', i.e. the universe we see in front of us, and of which we are part. Every atom in existence is a 'word of God', produced through the 'breath of the All-Merciful'.

This may seem difficult for the mind to grasp, but we humans, as representatives of the Creator, do a similar thing when we speak. For when a human being speaks, his breath is the subtle air that arises from his inwardness or breast to produce sounds and letters that come together, giving rise to words and speech. Such a person not only speaks but also “writes” with the “pen of his power” on the “tablet of his breath".

And they are words which, produced by breath flowing over the various parts of the mouth, can almost be said to come from nothing...

1 5D THINKING

FEATURES: INSIGHTS & REFLECTIONS

5D Thinking invites us all, not only the youth, to see the world not as static or empty, but as full of meaning and purpose. It encourages us to question, explore, and discover signs of the Creator in every facet of life. As one of my mentors beautifully noted, knowledge should awaken gratitude and responsibility.

EMBRACING 5D THINKING: A JOURNEY OF DISCOVERY Hassen Vally

As I journeyed through the teachings of the Qur'an and reflected deeply on the insights of Said Nursi, I encountered a transformative concept—5D Thinking.

Introduced to me during the 5D Thinking training, this model offers a holistic framework for life and learning, one that integrates the full spectrum of our human faculties. It has become a guide for personal renewal and a lens through which I now view education, spirituality, and service.

I do not claim authorship in the traditional sense. I consider myself a harvester of wisdom, drawing from the timeless teachings of scholars past and present.

In my personal experience, the 5D model nourishes five essential dimensions of human development: 1.Spiritual – Cultivating faith, humility, and connection with the Creator.

2.Intellectual – Fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and lifelong learning.

3.Emotional – Developing empathy, selfawareness, and emotional resilience.

4.Physical – Encouraging care for the body and the world.

5.Innovative – Igniting novelty, imagination, and meaningful expression.

Rather than seeing these aspects in isolation, 5D Thinking weaves them coherently. It challenges the fragmentation of modern education and offers a path toward integrated, purposeful growth.

At its heart, this model reconnects us with our Fitrah—our innate nature—and helps us

Through writing, teaching, and dialogue, I simply aim to pass along what has inspired me—to nurture understanding, spark

understand our unique place in the world. It also fosters awareness of the Creator's continuous act of creation, instilling awe,

reflection, and encourage growth.

wonder, and responsibility.

2 MAGAZINE

5D THINKING

In contrast, a purely secular model of education often neglects learners' spiritual and emotional dimensions. It reduces knowledge to content and individuals to consumers. 5D Thinking provides an alternative—a model grounded in values, meaning, and service.

This Model is more than a pedagogical shift.

It is a new paradigm. One that empowers individuals to take ownership of their learning, recognize their God-given gifts, and contribute to a more just and compassionate world.

In a time of ecological, spiritual, and social crisis, we need frameworks that restore balance. 5D Thinking offers a hopeful path forward. By reviving the spirit of inquiry and aligning knowledge with character, we prepare future leaders who are skilled and principled.

Let us embrace 5D Thinking as a living tradition—a model that honors both the depth of our heritage and the needs of our time. Let us teach and learn in ways that awaken the heart, sharpen the mind, and uplift the soul.

May we rise—not merely as students, but as guardians of meaning.

Harvester, Hassen Vally, South Africa

3 5D THINKING

FEATURES: QUR’AN REFLECTIONS

They exert tremendous effort and view their work as highly beneficial. Yet, the reality is starkly different. Despite apparent worldly success, their deeds become fruitless because they are disconnected from the ultimate reality—the Sustainer, the True Source of Success.

WHO ARE THE REAL LOSERS OF DEEDS? Dr. Necati Aydin Allah, in the Qur’an, presents a profound reflection through a striking question: ‫ُق ْل َهْل ُنَنِّبُئُكم ِبٱَأْلْخ َس ِريَن َأْع َم ٰـاًل‬

Say, ˹O Prophet,˺ "Shall we inform you of who will be the biggest losers of deeds?"

(18:103) This question immediately captures our attention, prompting deep contemplation: Who are these "biggest losers" who find no lasting benefit despite their tireless efforts?

The answer is given clearly in the subsequent verse: ‫ٱَّلِذ يَن َض َّل َس ْع ُيُه ْم ِفى ٱْلَحَي ٰو ِة ٱلُّد ْنَي ا َو ُه ْم َيْحَس ُبوَن‬ ‫َأَّنُه ْم ُيْحِس ُنوَن ُص ْن ًع ا‬

The verse below further clarifies this tragic situation: ‫ٰٓـ‬ ‫ُأ۟و َل ِئَك ٱَّلِذ يَن َكَف ُرو۟ا ِبٔـاَيٰـ ِت َرِّبِه ْم َو ِلَق ٓاِئِهۦ َف َحِبَط ْت‬ ‫َأْع َم ٰـُلُه ْم َفاَل ُنِق يُم َلُه ْم َيْو َم ٱْلِق َي ٰـ َم ِة َو ْز ًۭنا‬

They reject the signs of their Lord and their meeting with Him, rendering their deeds void, so We will not give their deeds any weight on Judgment Day. (18:105) Here, the Qur’an clearly defines the characteristics of these unsuccessful, yet hardworking individuals. They fail to recognize the signs of their Creator. They fail to see His messages, His constant reminders embedded in creation, and His continuous sustenance that maintains every moment of life. The verse emphasizes that recognizing these signs and forming a deep connection with the Creator is essential for genuine success.

˹They are˺ those whose efforts are in vain in

True success, therefore, is rooted in the

this worldly life, while they think they are doing good! (18:104) These verses describe a unique kind of failure: hardworking individuals who sincerely believe they are successful.

realization that Allah, with His infinite power and mercy, is the ultimate source of all blessings and accomplishments. If one does not grasp this reality, all deeds inevitably lose their eternal value.

4

MAGAZINE

5D THINKING

Efforts confined to worldly aims, disconnected from awareness of the Creator, ultimately become worthless on the scale of eternity.

Consider someone highly accomplished—a great physician, engineer, or teacher. They may work tirelessly, achieve remarkable success, and help countless others. Yet, if they see themselves as the ultimate source of their accomplishments and assume personal credit, expecting recognition, praise, and reward from others, their deeds remain confined to worldly recognition. Although praised by people, these deeds lack the essential understanding that gives them eternal worth.

On the Day of Judgment, all deeds—good and bad—will be weighed. However, deeds performed without recognizing Allah as the ultimate source will not weigh. Real goodness is defined not by the act alone but by the intention and awareness behind it.

Recognizing that healing comes from Allah, not from one's skill, transforms acts of kindness and service into worship. It is Allah who chooses individuals as means to manifest His mercy and blessings. Thus, individuals should never claim ultimate credit but humbly thank Allah for making them instruments of His grace.

When a person lives with this awareness, every action is done "in the name of Allah," directing attention and appreciation toward Him, rather than themselves. Such deeds carry immense value, transcending worldly benefit and becoming eternally rewarding.

The Qur’an thus teaches that being a good person involves more than just doing good deeds for others.

Yes, doing good for others is noble and rewarding in this life.

However, if one’s intention and purpose do not transcend worldly recognition, these actions fail to yield eternal benefit.

These verses powerfully underscore the essential requirement for success: recognizing and connecting to Allah, the Sustainer. Without this vital awareness, even the most challenging work is ultimately fruitless. Yet, when actions stem from a deep consciousness of Allah as the true source of all success and blessings, they become eternally valuable, profoundly meaningful, and genuinely rewarding beyond this temporary world.

5D Thinking Reflection Analytical Thinking: These verses begin with a deeply provocative question that pushes us to pause and reflect: Who are the biggest losers regarding deeds?

(18:103). The Qur’an here challenges our assumptions about success and failure. It invites us to go beyond appearances and examine the essence of reality.

At first glance, these individuals seem successful—they are hardworking, passionate, and helpful. Yet their efforts yield no eternal benefit. Why? Because they confuse the shadow with the source.

They fail to connect the visible signs to the Invisible Creator.

5 5D THINKING

True understanding requires curiosity—the kind that sees excitement in every detail of life, not to be distracted by the surface, but to trace every goodness back to its origin. When we explore life through this lens, we realize that everything points us back to the One who sustains all. The message is, don't be fooled by shadows; search for the Light behind them.

Analogical Thinking: Understanding why someone doing apparent good might still be a loss in the eternal sense can be difficult, until we see the analogy. Imagine entrusting someone with a million dollars to deliver aid to the poor, with clear instructions: deliver it on behalf of the real donor.

These verses help us critically evaluate the difference between real and imagined success. A person who claims to be the Source of healing, inspiration, or aid is not just mistaken—they are misleading others from discovering the true Source.

Such individuals may receive recognition in this life, but their deeds carry no weight in the Hereafter. Why? Because intention matters.

And awareness matters. Actions done in the name of self are self-limited. But actions done with recognition of Allah as the real Doer are elevated. Thus, the Qur’an leads us to assess what we do and why and for whom we do it. Without that clarity, no matter how grand our deeds may seem, they dissolve into weightlessness on the Day of Judgment.

But instead, the deliveryman acts as if the wealth is his, expecting gratitude and praise.

He hides the true source and blocks others from recognizing and connecting to the giver. Would such a person deserve a reward or rebuke? This mirrors real life: we are all given gifts—intelligence, strength, influence—to deliver benefit.

But when we claim ownership and demand credit, we betray our trust. Our mission is not just to help others, but to guide them to the real Helper. Even while doing good, those who miss this point fail in their core task.

They conceal the message in their blessings: a call to see, know, and connect with the One who gives all.

Critical Thinking: Let us ask: Should a person who misguides others by taking credit for Divine blessings be eternally rewarded? The answer is clear: no.

6 MAGAZINE

5D THINKING

Meditative Thinking: These verses also call us to a deep inner realization. If we reflect sincerely, we see how powerless and needy we are. We do not create ourselves. We do not sustain our lives.

Everything we do is dependent on countless factors beyond our control.

Once this is clear, we begin to see everything as a reflection of Divine mercy and power. Every success, every healing, every inspiration is a sign—a silent whisper from the Sustainer.

Through this lens, life becomes a journey of seeing, listening, and responding. Every flower is a message. Every breath is a call. Actual realization means stepping out of the illusion of self-sufficiency and walking into the light of Qur’anic truth. To live with this awareness is to hear the constant Divine calling, to respond to it, and to find peace by submitting to the One who created, guides, and sustains all.

Moral Thinking: Once this truth settles in our hearts, it reshapes our moral compass. We no longer seek recognition for ourselves. We give up the claim of ownership. We do good, but not for status, praise, or personal gain. We do it in His name, for His sake, and with full awareness that He enables every good deed. We redirect all gratitude and praise to the real Source. We begin to live appreciation, not just feel it. Our choices, goals, and daily intentions become rooted in this moral awakening. Being good is no longer defined by how much we do for others, but by how we see the Source of goodness—and how faithfully we reflect it.

We ask not just to do good, but to become a means for goodness to flow, without ever blocking its true origin. That is sincerity. That is success. That is what gives deeds eternal weight.

7 5D THINKING

5D SCIENCE FAIR 2025 The 5D Science Fair 2025 is in full swing- and we are excited to share that 143 student projects have been registered from around the world! This inaugural year’s fair brings together young innovators from Canada, Turkey, Malaysia, the USA, Pakistan, Brunei, and India- all eager to explore the wonders of creation and design real-world solutions inspired by it.

THEME: LEARNING FROM CREATION TO SOLVE REAL PROBLEMS Under the theme "Learning from Creation to Solve Real Problems", students were challenged to observe systems in the physical world- like how trees manage water or how ants work as a team- and use those ideas to build eco-friendly, human-made solutions. Whether it’s mimicking polar bear fur for better home insulation or designing silent propellers inspired by whales, these projects reflect deep thinking and innovative exploration.

IMPORTANT DEADLINES Project Submission Deadline: May 5, 2025 Virtual Judging: May 5–15, 2025 Results Announcement: May 20, 2025 Each participant is required to submit a PowerPoint presentation (up to 15 slides) and a 3minute video explaining their project. Emails have been sent to all participants with full instructions on how to upload their presentation, video, and how school principals can nominate top projects from their school.

2

0

2

5 8

MAGAZINE

5D THINKING

PRINCIPAL NOMINATIONS School principals are invited to nominate their top student projects using a simple online form. The number of allowed nominations is based on the total number of submitted projects from each school. These nominations assist the judging panel in shortlisting outstanding entries for the next round- but final decisions will be made by the judges.

A RIGOROUS THREE-PHASE JUDGING PROCESS The 5D Science Fair features a three-phase judging structure: Phase 1: Principal nominations and shortlisting Phase 2: Live virtual presentations to a panel of judges from the 5D Thinking team and non-participating school leaders Phase 3: Finalists will present to a prestigious panel of esteemed scientists, researchers, and industry professionals, who will offer feedback and determine the final rankings This tiered process ensures that every project is thoughtfully evaluated by educators and experts alike.

A CELEBRATION OF 5D THINKIING At the heart of the fair is the 5D Thinking Model, which challenges students to explore, compare, question, connect, and appreciate the deeper meanings and systems found in creation. It’s not just about science- it’s about seeing wisdom, beauty, and purpose in creation and reflecting on how it can inspire better solutions for humanity.

We look forward to witnessing the innovation and insight that each participant brings to the next stages. All the best to all our young changemakers- and thank you for making this global initiative a truly thoughtful and inspiring journey.

Contact: nadine@5dthinking.org

9 5D THINKING

YOUR WORDS, YOUR WORLD

Examples from daily life: "Unfortunately, I missed my flight." → This implies a regrettable accident— no meaning, purpose, or bad timing.

"Fortunately, we found a parking spot." → This credits the event to chance or good luck, not to a purposeful arrangement or divine facilitation.

ARE WE SPEAKING A WORLDVIEW WITHOUT KNOWING IT? Ms. Uzma Ahmed The Hidden Secularism in Words Like Unfortunately and Fortunately Words matter. They shape how we see the world, interpret events, and understand our place in the universe. In everyday speech, many of us unconsciously adopt terms that reflect a worldview far removed from Tawhid. One striking example is our use of “unfortunately” and “fortunately.” These words appear harmless, but they subtly shift the source of outcomes from a purposeful Creator to the hands of luck, chance, or coincidence.

The World According to Chance The word “unfortunately” implies that misfortune occurred without reason or intention—just bad luck. It silently assumes that things happen at random. Similarly, “fortunately” suggests that one got lucky.

These expressions leave out Allah’s decree and any notion of wisdom, will, or purpose behind what happens.

These phrases may seem minor, but when we use them repeatedly, they reinforce a secular, detached way of seeing the world.

A Tawhidic Way of Speaking The Qur'anic worldview teaches us that nothing occurs without Allah's will, knowledge, and power. Even apparent difficulties carry hidden benefits and meanings. Replacing secular phrases with ones that reflect trust in Allah's plan reorients our hearts toward Him. Alternative expressions: "It was not written for me to catch the flight. There is khayr (good) in it, even if I don't see it yet."

"Alhamdulillah, we were guided to find a parking spot easily."

These expressions acknowledge the outcome and place it within a framework of divine mercy and wisdom. We are no longer victims of chance—we are recipients of intentional acts of care from the One who sustains us.

10 MAGAZINE

5D THINKING

Why It Matters Language is a reflection of worldview. When we say “unfortunately” or “fortunately”, we unwittingly endorse a universe that runs on randomness. But when we shift to Godconscious language, we speak in a way that aligns our words with our beliefs. We teach our children, students, and even ourselves to see the world as a meaningful and interconnected reality, not as a lottery.

Words as Witnesses The Prophet ‫ ﷺ‬said, “A person speaks a word without considering its consequence, yet by it he may fall into the Hellfire…”

(Bukhari). This reminds us that words carry weight. They are not mere sounds but testimonies of how we view the world.

Let’s re-evaluate our expressions and renew our intention to speak with awareness. Our words should reflect a world filled with purpose, mercy, and connection, not one of luck or loss.

Reflection Next time you’re about to say “fortunately” or “unfortunately”, pause. Ask yourself: ➤ Is this how I see the world? ➤ What meaning does this word carry? ➤ What alternative could I use to reflect a Tawhidic lens?

In doing so, we reclaim our words—and our world.

Common Phrase

What's the Issue?

Tawhidic Alternative

“Unfortunately, it rained.”

Implies the rain was bad luck or poorly timed.

“The rain came by Allah’s will. It has wisdom, even if I don’t know it.”

“Fortunately, no one was hurt.”

Crediting safety to good luck, not divine mercy.

“Alhamdulillah, no harm came to anyone—Allah protected us.”

“I was lucky to get the job.”

Gives credit to chance rather than divine facilitation.

“Allah made it easy for me. It was written for me.”

“Unfortunately, the trip was cancelled.”

It is treated as a random loss and disconnected from a higher plan.

“It was not written for us to go— perhaps there is khayr (good) in it.”

“Fortunately, we made it on time.”

Suggests a happy coincidence.

“We arrived on time by Allah’s grace. Alhamdulillah.”

11 5D THINKING

5D TRAINING & EVENTS

The workshop was led by a distinguished team of scholars and facilitators, including Dr. Necati Aydin, Founder and Project Leader of the 5D Thinking Model, Dr. Alparslan Açıkgenç, President of the Institute of Integrated Knowledge, Ms. Nadine Kamal, Ms Roshilawati Razlan, Ms Betul Baysal, Dr. Bunyamin Han, and Dr. Mehmet Ali.

THE 5TH ISTANBUL WORKSHOP FOR TRANSFORMATIVE TEACHING: A GLOBAL MILESTONE IN 5D THINKING Ms. Nadine Kamal The Institute of Integrated Knowledge (IIK), in collaboration with Istanbul Foundation for Science and Culture (IIKV), completed the 5th Istanbul Workshop for Transformative Teaching - Level 1 5D Thinking Certification Program, held from April 14th to 19th, 2025.

Collaborative Learning in Action Participants were divided into four groups, each guided by a dedicated facilitator. The spirit of inquiry and collaboration was evident throughout the week, with participants encouraged to ask questions, reflect deeply, and engage fully.

On the final day, the groups presented their 5D topics. Each group simulated a classroom experience, using gamification, guided inquiry, critical thinking prompts, and dynamic teaching strategies. These presentations brought the model to life and showcased a new paradigm of teaching that blends purpose, content, and innovation.

A Transformative Conclusion The workshop concluded with a heartfelt closing ceremony, where participants shared reflections, celebrated their growth, and received their certificates of participation.

Twenty-one educators from around the globe- including Malaysia, Pakistan, the United States, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and Morocco- gathered to explore the 5D Thinking Model as a powerful solution to education's deep-rooted challenges.

12 MAGAZINE

5D THINKING

"It's the only program that tackles the real problem of our generation: the total disconnection of youth from the Creator. I, too, had a misconnection problem, and I wasn't even aware of it. It changed my life, not just how I will teach. I think every educator, mother, father, principal, and individual must undergo this experience to see the world better and liberate themselves."

- Houda Tatari, Morocco "It's amazing how five days can transform your thinking and turn you into a new person. I know Dr Necati said it's an "eye surgery", but I also feel like it's a brain surgery. I've been through a lot of "surgeries" here and am looking forward to going back home renewed, insha-Allah, with new vision and new goals in mind to implement many things in our curriculum, insha-Allah. I enjoyed being here. I came with my sister, the principal of Oceans Academy. Alhamdulillah, we both feel the same way about this, and we're already very excited about going back home and sharing this with our peers, colleagues, and team, inshallah."

- Salma Naseerudin, USA

“For me personally, being from a Cambridge associate school in Pakistan, I feel there is a huge vacuum as to the curriculum, the material, or the content that we teach. It is secularized. It is void of the Creator. The Creator is not mentioned anywhere.

From the perspective of Islamic schools, we’ve always wanted something to help bring that back in. We’ve always depended on saying, “We’re teaching science,” and then separately, “We’re teaching about Allah in Islamic Studies,” or other subjects.

And we kind of leave it to the learner to connect the two. But this does not really happen. You have to be very proactive, connect it, and give it to the students and the learners.

Things will not happen automatically.

This is one thing I believe 5D Thinking can benefit the learners. Ultimately, why are we all here, and what are we doing here? We are here so that we can be a reason for the benefit of the learners, insha-Allah.”

- Fahad Haroon, Pakistan

“In my reflections, I wrote that Allah is showing us so much proof. When I’m reading the materials, I feel like- Ya Allahhow could we not see You? How could we not see You? I mean, we know Him because we’re Muslims, but it just feels like we are so guilty of not seeing Him as He wanted us to see Him.” - Nur Zahirah M Shukran, Malaysia

13 5D THINKING

Exciting News from our Publications Department

The Grade 4 Science Workbook is Now Available!

“Science Secrets in 5 steps” is the latest in our series and integrates core scientific concepts with the 5D Thinking Model. This unique approach nurtures analytical, analogical, critical, meditative, and moral thinking.

This book is about discovering the purposeful creation of the universe and awakening hearts to the signs of the One who sustains all existence. Each chapter is carefully written to de-secularise science education and cultivate a Tawhidic worldview in the minds of young learners.

Designed for Purposeful Learning This textbook brings together scientific accuracy and spiritual insight, rooted in the understanding that science is not valueneutral but a meaningful way to know the signs of Allah. Using the 5D Thinking Model, students learn how things work, why they matter, and how they can grow in character and consciousness.

Invite this journey of purpose into your classroom.

Chapter Highlights: 1.Leafy Chefs: The Recipe of Photosynthesis!

Shows how green leaves follow a precise order, reflecting the knowledge and will of the One who sustains life.

2. The Tooth Truth: Understanding Our Pearly Whites Teeth are not just tools for eating—they are signs of mercy and perfect design, shape, and colour for human benefit.

3. A Stomach Safari through the Digestive System Guides students to reflect on the harmony and coordination in digestion, which points to a Wise Sustainer on whom every part of this system is dependent.

4. Hidden Transformations: Sublimation and Deposition in the Water Cycle Reveals how matter is changed into different forms in different ways, echoing the power of the unseen Creator.

5. Shape Shifters: The Exciting World of Solids, Liquids, and Gases!

Highlights how only Allah governs the movement of every particle.

6. Majestic and Miraculous Metals Encourages gratitude for metals as purposeful resources gifted for human ease and progress.

7. Hot and Cool: The Secrets of Heat and Matter Explores how heat transfer testifies to the order established by the All-Wise.

8. The Sounds that Surround Us ➤ Teaches how sound travels with precision, inviting reflection on the One who gave us hearing and speech.

9. The Mystery of Magnetism ➤ Demonstrates invisible forces that are needed to connect and repel, helping students reflect on the unseen forces of Divine Will.

10. Fantastic Forces and Marvelous Motion ➤ Shows how every movement in the universe is regulated, reflecting a single source of ultimate power and control.

14

MAGAZINE

5D THINKING

FEATURES: INSIGHTS & REFLECTIONS

TIMELESS SUCCESS PRINCIPLES Dr. Necati Aydin For those who seek true success, these ten principles, viewed through the 5D Thinking lens, can offer a clear path to real achievement, no matter the outcome.

1. Connect with the Creator Before You Begin Before starting anything, pause. Reflect. Recite a few verses from the Qur'an. Look around and ponder His signs in creation. Feel His presence. Reconnect your heart with Allah.

When your starting point is a connection with the Creator, the journey becomes an act of worship. Begin in His name (bismillah) and proceed with His permission and power (biidhnihi wa bi-quwwatihi). Let your first words be the eternal declaration of true success: ‫ُأ‬ ‫َوَم ا َتْو ِفيِق ي ِإاَّل ِبالَّلِه ۚ َع َلْي ِه َتَو َّكْل ُت َو ِإَلْي ِه ِنيُب‬ "My success is only by Allah. Upon Him I have relied, and to Him I return" (Hud,11:88)

2. Seek Allah’s Pleasure Only Could you purify your intention (niyyah) and remind yourself: I am doing this solely for His sake? The approval of people means nothing if He is displeased. If others are pleased with you, take it as a sign of His pleasure. If they are not, don’t be disheartened. What matters only is that He is pleased. That is true success. Know that Allah rewards based on intention and effort, not results.

3. Have God-Confidence Real strength doesn’t come from wealth, influence, or status. It doesn’t come through self-confidence either. It comes through God-confidence when you establish a sincere connection with Allah. When you turn to Him with an open heart, you draw from an infinite power source sufficient for every challenge and obstacle.

4. Follow the Sunnatullah (Divine Way) Whatever you want to achieve, follow the way Allah has established in creation. He brings things into existence through specific patterns. If you wish Him to create an apple, you must plant and care for the seed—that’s His way. Even the companions of the Prophet ‫ ﷺ‬were not granted success at the Battle of Uhud when they neglected these divine patterns. Success doesn’t come from hopes alone—it is granted when you align your efforts with the way Allah brings about outcomes.

15 5D THINKING

5. Pursue the Blessing of Teamwork Three people working separately may add up to the strength of 1 + 1 + 1. But when those same three work together with sincerity, unity, and a shared purpose, their strength becomes like 111—far greater than the sum of the individuals. That’s Allah’s blessing for true teamwork. When hearts come together for a common cause, Allah places barakah (blessing) in their efforts and opens doors to outcomes far beyond what anyone could achieve alone.

6. Be a Supportive Teammate When a teammate falls short, don’t rush to criticize—rush to support. Everyone struggles sometimes, and your response can lift them or break their spirit. Be like a human body: when one part is in pain, the rest rushes to its aid. That’s how a proper team functions—with care, patience, and empathy. Unity, care, and compassion are not just virtues—they are keys that invite Allah’s blessings into everything you do together.

7. Celebrate Others’ Success as Your Own People often say that good friends are those who share your pain. But even better friends are those who sincerely celebrate your success. That’s not always easy, because jealousy can quietly get in the way. Yet when the mission is greater than the ego, someone else’s success becomes your joy too. Rejoice when others succeed in serving the shared purpose. In a sincere team, every achievement belongs to all.

True unity means celebrating one another, not competing with one another.

8. Remember Your Mortality Act as if this may be your final opportunity to do good. Death is an absolute reality— whether it comes today or tomorrow makes no difference. No one can assure you of the next hour, let alone the next day.

Let this awareness shift your focus from this temporary life to the eternal one that follows. You have little time and a great mission, so rush to do as much good as possible. Let the certainty of death purify your intention, deepen your sincerity, and awaken a sense of urgency in living for what truly matters.

9. Recognize the Enemy Shayṭān is your true enemy, and he often works from within. His weapons are subtle: he whispers through your nafs (desires), inflates your ego, and invites you to laziness and delay. He makes excuses feel valid and distractions seem urgent. The closer you draw to Allah and commit to doing good, the harder he works to block your path. Be alert. Don’t be fooled. Stay firm, stay humble, and stay focused.

10. Watch the Ego Closely When success comes, don’t let pride sneak in. Thank Allah. Don’t claim the credit for yourself—it is He who guides you to do good, and He who creates the good you hope to achieve. You are simply a means, not the source. So all praise belongs to Him alone. Shayṭān often uses blessings to inflate the ego and turn sincerity into selfglorification. That was the path of Pharaoh —he turned divine gifts into arrogance and made false claims of power. Stay humble.

Keep your heart clean. Let success deepen your gratitude, not your pride.

16

MAGAZINE

5D THINKING

17 5D THINKING

FEATURES: INSIGHTS & REFLECTIONS

GenAI is undoubtedly a marvel of modern engineering. It processes and reproduces language in patterns that resemble human thinking, though it is not thinking in a real sense. But this brilliance is not an end; it is the product of human minds, among God's greatest signs.

DECODING THE DIVINE IN THE DIGITAL Aisha Alowais ‫ُق ل َّلْو َك اَن اْلَبْحُر ِم َداًدا ِّلَكِلَم اِت َرِّبي َلَنِف َد اْلَبْحُر َق ْب َل‬ ‫َأن َتنَف َد َك ِلَم اُت َرِّبي َو َلْو ِج ْئ َنا ِبِم ْث ِلِه َم َدًدا‬ "Say: If the sea were ink for the words of my Lord, the sea would be exhausted before the words of my Lord were exhausted, even if We brought the like of it to aid."

— Surah Al-Kahf 18:109 In an age where technology grows by leaps and bounds, humanity stands before an innovation that evokes both amazement and reflection: Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI). This tool can compose poetry, generate artwork, write code, and hold conversations with stunning coherence.

Many describe it as "intelligent"—and in some ways, it looks like it. But 5D Thinking urges us to go deeper: not merely to marvel at what GenAI can do, but to ask what it tells us about the One who enabled it all.

As such, GenAI should not be viewed as a threat or rival to human intelligence, but as a mirror, reflecting the blessing of human reasoning gifted by Allah. It becomes a sign (ayah), a modern one, pointing back to the Divine Source of all knowledge. Just as a telescope reveals the grandeur of the galaxies, GenAI reveals the power embedded in human design as a manifestation of the Divine Designer.

The Qur'anic verse in Surah Al-Kahf is a stunning reminder: even if all the seas were ink, they would be exhausted before the Words of Allah are complete. The most sophisticated AI, processing zettabytes of data, generating billions of responses, is still just a drop from that ocean.

Before we marvel at the brilliance of GenAI, we must pause and reflect: if a machine can only remix what it learns from human knowledge, where did the first human ability to think, design, and imagine come from?

Can randomness or "nature" explain the emergence of intelligent beings capable of building smart machines?

18 MAGAZINE

5D THINKING

If even the most sophisticated algorithms depend entirely on human input, how much greater must the mind that conceived them be, and who created the human mind?

Furthermore, machines require constant updates and repairs by human hands, while our hearts beat. In that case, our lungs breathe, and our cells are continuously renewed without any visible intervention—is this not a clear sign of an infinitely Wise and Powerful Creator who sustains and repairs all of this without us even noticing?

Interconnectivity: A Machine Rooted in God's Web 5D Thinking invites us to reflect on the deep interconnectivity in creation, and GenAI is no exception. It could not exist without seamlessly integrating countless elements rooted in Divine wisdom and will. GenAI was made through: • Human innovation (a reflection of AlKhāliq, the Creator), • Massive datasets built from global collaboration (reflecting our shared memory), • Hardware forged from Earth's minerals (gifts from Ar-Razzāq, the Provider), • Code written in logical sequences (signs of Al-Ḥakīm, the All-Wise).

Every part of GenAI exists within a vast, interconnected universe that depends entirely on Allah's will, from the silicon in its chips to the neural networks it mimics. Even its "knowledge" is not its own—it has been built on the collective output of human beings over centuries, which were only made possible by divine guidance, provision, and inspiration.

Ultimately, GenAI is a blessing from Allah, just like the human brain. The brain is given to us as a fully formed, ready-to-use miracle. On the other hand, GenAI comes in scattered pieces—hidden in minerals, logic, knowledge, and human collaboration—and we are inspired to bring those pieces together through the intellect He has granted us. So, while we call it “an-made,” in truth, it is God-made and man-discovered.

Character Lessons: Learning from What We Build GenAI also offers profound lessons for us, as believers, in building our character. From a 5D thinking perspective, even a machine can serve as a moral guide: Be humble: GGenAI's access to collective human knowledge underscores the importance of humility.

If limited human knowledge possesses such depth, how much greater is the Infinite Knowledge of God? Recognize your limits: Just as GenAI can mimic but not truly understand, we must acknowledge that our understanding is also limited. It is Allah who grants us comprehension. True wisdom begins with humility before Him. Use your gifts for good: Like any tool, GenAI can be used for harmful or beneficial purposes. This reminds us that our choices carry weight. As stewards (khulafa) on Earth, we are accountable for utilizing the blessings we have received.

Every discovery is a doorway that leads us closer to the Divine. May GenAI not inflate our pride, but instead open our hearts to the boundless ocean of God's words, forever unfolding and infinite.

19 5D THINKING

FEATURES: INSIGHTS & REFLECTIONS

REFLECTIONS FROM MADINAH: A GATHERING FOR THE FUTURE OF ISLAMIC EDUCATION Uzma Ahmed I was blessed with the opportunity to attend a workshop entitled World Islamic Baccalaureate (WIB)—an initiative led by Dr Sayd Farook to design a comprehensive educational system for Muslims across the globe. I was overwhelmed with the honour of being able to speak about the legacy of our beloved Messenger ‫ ﷺ‬in the City of Light, Madīnah al-Munawwarah—from where the light of Islam once radiated across continents.

It was in this very city that a small group of Muhājirūn and Anṣār laid the foundation for generations to come, guided by revelation, brotherhood, and sincere submission to Allah. Standing in this historical landscape, treading on the path of the best generation of Muslims, I felt the weight of our time: the urgent need to revisit and renew the intellectual foundations of Islamic education. I was deeply honoured to be part of this global effort.

The WIB Workshop brought together educators, scholars, and curriculum developers from over 30 countries.

Throughout the sessions, we engaged in meaningful discussions about the urgent need for a global Islamic educational body rooted in the Islamic worldview. We critically examined the dominant secular paradigm and its underlying assumptions, questioning whether it can truly be reconciled with the goals of Islamic education.

During my presentation, I shared a verse that captures the very heart of why we had gathered in Madinah.

Allah says in Sūrah Ibrāhīm: ‫الرۚ ِك َت اٌب َأنَز ْلَن اُه ِإَلْي َك ِلُت ْخ ِرَج ٱلَّن اَس ِم َن‬ ‫ٱلُّظ ُلَم ٰـ ِت ِإىَل ٱلُّن وِر ِبِإ ْذ ِن َر ِّبِه ْم ِإٰىَل ِص َٰر ِط ٱْلَع ِزيِز‬ ‫ٱْلَحِم يِد‬ “Alif Lām Rā. [This is] a Book which We have revealed to you [O Muhammad], that you might bring mankind out of darkness into light—by permission of their Lord—to the path of the Exalted in Might, the Praiseworthy.” (Surah Ibrahim, 14:1) I highlighted how the verse uses the plural “al-ẓulumāt” (darknesses) and the singular “al-nūr” (light)—signifying that falsehood is many and fragmented, while truth is one and unified. I connected this to our current struggle with spreading secular and materialist ideologies, which obscure the light of revelation and reduce education to a worldly, disconnected pursuit. I shared my concern that what is often presented as “science” today is no longer a neutral pursuit of understanding the universe; it is increasingly shaped by ideological narratives that dismiss the metaphysical.

20

MAGAZINE

5D THINKING

This distortion has led many to see the cosmos as self-sustaining and independent, rather than as a series of purposeful signs (āyāt) pointing to Allah's knowledge, will, and power. Together with fellow educators, we discussed the need to reclaim science as a means of reflection—a way to witness the harmony, beauty, and precision embedded in the universe, all of which direct the heart and mind back to the Creator. Rather than detaching us from belief, science, when properly understood, should deepen our awareness of our utter dependence on Allah and strengthen our sense of awe and gratitude.

Br. Asad Choudhry, a founding member of ISAC Canada, delivered a powerful presentation on “The Apostate Report”—a sobering study based on testimonies from former Muslims in North America. His insights highlighted the deep dangers of secularism and how secular educational environments often contribute to the erosion of faith among young Muslims. His contribution helped steer the conversation toward the fundamental need to avoid secular concepts and terminologies when designing Islamic curricula, and to develop education systems that nurture a strong, conscious, and unwavering attachment to Allah instead.

As we worked, we referred consistently to the emerging principles of what some began calling the “Madinah Consensus”—a shared understanding rooted in the Prophetic model and the early foundations of Islamic education.

The shūrā method was actively applied throughout our group work, ensuring that every voice was heard and decisions were made through mutual consultation. The workshop was structured around eight working groups, each tasked with outlining key components of the proposed model.

These teams worked diligently to draft a preliminary framework, aiming to launch within the coming year.

As the discussion progressed, the proposed World Islamic Baccalaureate was critically examined, with several participants raising concerns about its secular underpinnings. It was suggested that an alternative name be adopted to reflect the project’s vision better and distance it from the secular implications associated with the term “baccalaureate.” A steering committee of seven nominated individuals was also formed to lead and coordinate the broader effort, while the working groups will continue their collaboration beyond the workshop.

My participation in the workshop reflected our ongoing commitment at the Institute of Integrated Knowledge (IIK) to contribute meaningfully to global conversations on Islamic education. I returned from Madinah with renewed conviction, inspired by the richness of our shared vision and the sincerity of educators from around the world.

The dream of a holistic, Tawḥīdic education system is no longer a distant idea—it is a growing movement that, in shā' Allāh, will serve generations to come.

21 5D THINKING

The 5D Thinking App — Coming in May to Apple Devices!

We are pleased to share exciting news: the 5D Thinking Model is expanding beyond the classroom and into your hands, with the upcoming launch of the 5D Thinking App on Apple devices.

This app offers a mobile extension of our 5D Thinking LMS, built on the same transformative educational model that views the universe as a divine book, where scientific discovery becomes a pathway to deeper faith, reflection, and character.

Our flagship course, Science Secrets in 5 Steps—developed for learners from kindergarten to Grade 8—will be fully available within the app. In addition, you’ll find individual subject-based courses, each designed for specific grade ranges, offering flexibility to customize content according to your child’s age and learning needs.

You can purchase courses directly within the app, and if you’ve already made purchases on our website, log in to access your materials seamlessly across devices.

Key Features:

🔍 Interactive lessons rooted in the five dimensions of

thinking: Analytical, Analogical, Critical, Meditative, and Moral.

🌟 🎨

Spiritual reflections woven into scientific exploration, encouraging values and wisdom alongside knowledge.

Engaging visuals, animations, and hands-on activities that awaken awe and purpose.

🧩 Customizable subject choices by grade range to support

personalized learning.

Welcome Reading the universe like an elegant book

Alhamdulillah, the 5D Thinking Model is already being used in schools across the UK, the US, Canada, Pakistan, Malaysia, and South Africa. Now, with this app, it becomes even more accessible, wherever and whenever you are.

Begin

READING THE UNIVERSE AS AN ELEGANT BOOK—ON THE 5D THINKING APP

22 MAGAZINE

5D THINKING

5D TRAINING & EVENTS

Level 2 training was a truly enriching experience, packed with profound and advanced lectures.

Participants who had previously completed Level 1 found immense value in the eye-opening content.

LEVEL-2 5D THINKING TRAINING IN ISTANBUL: A NEW CHAPTER IN PURPOSEFUL EDUCATION Betul Koser In April 2025, the second on-site Level-2 training served as a profound reminder of the immense value and significance of gathering educators, principals, intellectuals, and parents representing a rich tapestry of backgrounds, cultures, age groups, and nations all bound by a common aspiration: to address the pressing challenges confronting contemporary education, to renew their connection with the Creator and to contribute to the unification of the Ummah by nurturing conscious, sincere generations anchored in purpose and awareness.

The in-person engagements, dynamic sessions, and experiential activities enabled participants to internalize the 5-Dimensional Thinking Model and its foundational concepts more deeply. Such immersive encounters provided intellectual enrichment and a reflective and collaborative space.

One of the core lectures, Reading the Self and the Universe, examined the self, Mahiyyatul Insan, and highlighted how studying the universe plays a crucial role in understanding our own reality and purpose. It highlighted the difference between SelfDetermination Theory (SDT), which encourages reliance on the self and fulfilling psychological needs like autonomy, competence, and relatedness, and Self-Realization Theory (SRT), which emphasizes complete reliance on Allah and understanding that true potential flows from Divine connection.

In his presentation, Dr. Mustafa Tuna from Duke University provided strong, scholarly evidence and reasoning to show why analogical thinking is more convincing than deductive and inductive thinking.

He made a powerful case that analogical reasoning is the Qur’anic way, heavily used by early scholars. However, as Islamic thought later became influenced by Greek translations, the value of analogical reasoning was diminished, and greater emphasis was placed on inductive reasoning.

Another foundational lecture, Constant Creation, offered a deep dive into the Divine Name AlKhallaq. Alhamdulillah, the sessions left a powerful impact. One participant shared: “It really showed me what true Tawhid is, how we can apply it in our daily lives, and how we should propagate this in every level of society.”

23 5D THINKING

In addition to the core lectures, Level-2 participants benefited greatly from guest sessions with prominent scholars and thinkers.

Prof. Abdelhaq Hamza, from the University of New Brunswick, Canada, gave an impactful lecture on Secularism in Science. Sharing his personal journey as a Muslim scientist with a PhD from MIT, he exposed the core issues in modern science, especially how it consciously removed God from its foundation. He reminded us that science itself can become a belief system.

Prof. Yunus Çengel from the University of Nevada delivered an excellent presentation on the influence of materialism in science and how it can be addressed through critical thinking.

Dr. Farah Ahmed, Convenor of Cambridge Dialogues: Renewing K-12 Education in Islamic Contexts at Cambridge University, delivered a rich session on Human Fitrah and Education.

She brings deep insight into the field with a PhD in Education from the University of Cambridge and over thirty years of experience teaching in and leading Islamic schools in the UK. In her session, she highlighted the importance of oneon-one, caring teaching, drawing comparisons to how the Prophet ‫ ﷺ‬taught the Sahabah.

She emphasized nurturing children to consciously choose to be Muslim, the significance of niyyah, and the traditional use of halaqah in teaching. Her talk led to lively discussion that enriched the program.

Dr. Nadeem Memon also joined as a guest speaker and shared valuable insights from his research on the common challenges faced in Islamic education. He emphasized the need for collaborative efforts to address these issues and highlighted the importance of teacher education within an Islamic framework. Dr. Memon is an Associate Professor at the Centre for Islamic Thought and Education (CITE) at the University of South Australia (UniSA), where he also serves as a Curriculum Advisor for the Graduate Certificate in Education (Islamic Education), the first online graduate program for educators in Islamic schools globally. His timely and relevant contributions sparked meaningful discussions on improving the quality of education in Islamic settings.

Overall, Level-2 training was a gift from Allah (SWT). One participant reflected: “Level 2 is more focused, more engaging, and does a better job of grounding the concepts clearly and in a relatable way.”

We sincerely thank everyone who made this journey possible: our instructors, guest speakers, organizers, and participants. A special thanks goes to IIKV Istanbul Science and Culture Foundation for facilitating the IIK Institute of Integrated Knowledge training.. We sincerely thank the entire team for their support and contribution.

May what we learned together become a source of ongoing impact in our personal lives, classrooms, and communities. May Allah accept and increase these efforts and allow us to be part of a revival in education that brings hearts closer to Him.

24 MAGAZINE

5D THINKING

FEATURES: INSIGHTS & REFLECTIONS

Both are indispensable. Merely knowing what is right is insufficient; we must also distinctly recognize what is wrong to avoid inadvertently stumbling into it.

DO WE NEED OUR CREATOR FOR GUIDANCE? Dr. Ali Mermer ‫ وأرني‬،‫اللهم أرني الحق حقًا وارزقني اتباعه‬ ‫الباطل باطال وارزقني اجتنابه‬ "O Allah, show me the truth as the truth and guide me to follow it and show me falsehood as falsehood and guide me to avoid it."

This beautiful and powerful prayer deeply resonates with me. It reflects the sincere yearning of those who recognize the need for divine guidance. I often turn to this supplication to articulate my dependence: Having endless desires and limited capacity in a transient and ever-changing world, I realize that I, alone, cannot navigate the path of truth without my Creator's direction.

Reflecting on this prayer, I notice it encapsulates two crucial human needs: first, to perceive truth clearly and embrace it, and second, to discern falsehood unequivocally and shun it.

Humans have an innate desire to seek what is best, to understand what is meaningful, honest, and good. Yet, we live in a world surrounded by falsehood and ambiguity.

This is why we yearn to know the truth and recognize falsehood as such—for without this clarity, we are vulnerable to deceptions.

The ability to choose between true and false ideas requires that they both exist. Consider this: without darkness, the presence of light would be indistinguishable. Similarly, the existence of false interpretations serves to highlight and deepen our appreciation of truth. Falsehood, in essence, lacks inherent existence; it is merely the absence of truth, just as darkness is the absence of light.

There are two main areas where we seek truth: our physical and emotional or spiritual needs. In physical matters, we use the process of trial and error. If something works—like a tool or medication—we know it’s helpful to us and benefit from it accordingly. The physical world lets us test things directly. We do not need additional guidance from our Creator for this. By experimenting, we have already created the ability to discern what is materially beneficial or harmful for us. That’s how technology is developed—by trying, testing, and verifying.

26 MAGAZINE

5D THINKING

But it's different when it comes to our inner world—our consciousness, intellect, feelings, values, and purpose. Our feelings extend towards infinity, yet the universe itself is finite.

The fundamental questions of existence resonate deep within us: Why am I here?

What is the purpose of my life?

Why this innate longing for eternal happiness?

Why this underlying fear of meaninglessness?

These are not mere curiosities; they lie at the very core of the human experience.

However, the universe itself offers no direct answers. Although it shows signs of meaning and purpose, it is transient and cannot answer or meet our heartfelt questions. Its existence hints at a Creator without providing explicit clarity. Our emotions yearn for these truths, but the cosmos remains silent. Where, then, can we turn for reliable answers?

We possess the unique gift of free will, an ability accompanied by responsibility. Each moment presents us with a choice: to embrace truth or to turn away from it.

Truth aligns with creation's meaningfulness, which resonates with human feelings. Like the illogical equation 2+2=5, falsehood lacks grounding in reality—an illusion designed to test our discernment and deepen our appreciation for what is genuine.

The process of choosing makes the necessity of our inherent need for guidance extremely apparent. We are created with a deep yearning for certainty and purpose, yet placed in a world where self-derived answers remain uncertain.

Not only does the universe remain silent, but by being subject to change itself, it also fails to provide any means of everlasting happiness or meaningfulness. This indicates that nothing of the essence of the transient world is independent and therefore, can provide security for endless human desires.

Human beings require a Source beyond the impermanent and vague nature of the universe. Only an absolute and independent Creator who fashioned both the universe and our beings, along with our deeplyseated desire for perfect and lasting fulfillment, must and can reveal the truth.

This necessarily points towards the concept of revelation.

The Messengers' messages declare that they have received answers to human questions: "Your Creator has sent us guidance. This message answers your deepest spiritual questions and shows you how to live in harmony with your essence (fitrah) and the universe, finding complete fulfillment in your life."

This message—in the present day, the Qur'an aligns with what we observe in the universe and what we feel in our hearts.

Rather than blindly accepting the truth, it invites us to use the universe and our inner senses as witnesses to its authenticity. It challenges us to reflect and verify its teachings through our innermost feelings and the world around us. Consider how the Qur'an teaches that life continues after death and our actions carry consequences.

27 5D THINKING

While we cannot witness someone returning to life, we can find the evidence in creation itself, our innate longing for absolute justice unmet in this world, and the profound desire for eternal fulfillment.

We might reach some notion of the truth by using our intellect and consciousness, but we need something more to confirm it as absolutely true. This is because the truth we seek is related to the reality of the creation of the universe and ourselves. This includes our human feelings, which extend beyond the universe. This is where our need to turn to God, the Creator of the universe, is found.

With this realization, I turn back to the profound prayer: ‫ وأرني‬،‫اللهم أرني الحق حقًا وارزقني اتباعه‬ ‫الباطل باطًال وارزقني اجتنابه‬ “O Allah, show me the truth as truth and guide me to follow it, and show me falsehood as falsehood and guide me to avoid it.”

It is essential to experience and recognize the inherent limitations of human intellect in the pursuit of absolute certainty.

Everything in creation, from our feelings to the ordered environment, suggests that such a fundamental desire has been installed with a corresponding means of realizing it. However, this innate longing for certainty indicates its origins can only be found in the One who gave it.

I must therefore turn to my Creator and acknowledge: "I admit that unless You show me the truth, I cannot find it alone. The only truth I've discovered with certainty is that I cannot discover the truth by myself! O my Creator, my Owner, my Educator, my Lord! Please help me find and affirm the truth! I am sure I need Your help at all times—this much I know for sure! I confess."

28 MAGAZINE

5D THINKING

FEATURES: INSIGHTS & REFLECTIONS

LEVEL 2 5D THINKING TRAINING - THE 2ND STEP IN “EYE-OPENING SURGERY” Ms. Shila Razlan Malaysia Dr. Said Yüce, the Executive President of IIKV, frequently reflects on Professor Necati Aydin's concise and profound take on the essence of 5-Dimensional Thinking training, where he likened it to "an eye surgery where layers of secularization were removed."

Having had the privilege of immersing myself in the 5D Thinking Level 1 Certification Training in December 2024, followed by the Level 2 Certification Training in April 2025, I can attest to the profound resonance of this analogy.

The lectures were designed to cultivate in participants the profound ability to perceive the universe as an eloquent and revealing text. If I were to select the three concepts that shone with particular clarity, they would be: Mana-i-Harfi, Self Realization, and Constant Creation.

The illuminating concept of Mana-i-Harfi According to this perspective, the universe and everything within it are like words or letters in a grand and elegant book. Their significance resides not in their isolated existence but in what they reveal about their Author - Allah SWT. Thus, Mana-i Harfi encourages us to observe things' external appearance and consider them signs or reflections of divine power, wisdom, beauty, and other attributes. It is a case of valuing the interconnectedness of creation and appreciating the ultimate source of all existence. In essence, it's a change in perspective from viewing things as individual objects to viewing them as meaningful signs that invite contemplation of the Divine. Valuing this perspective has helped me make choices about events in my life in a way that impacts my decisionmaking through a tawhidic lens.

Self-Determination Theory (SDT) vs. Selfrealization Theory SDT, which was developed and gained popularity in the 70's, is a personality and human motivation theory that emphasizes the importance of intrinsic motivation, which stems from the inherent enjoyment gained from performing an activity. At the center of SDT is the theory that there are three fundamental psychological needs upon which individuals must thrive: autonomy, competence, and relatedness. Despite its limitations when viewed from a perspective that values the role of divine intervention, this theory has significantly shaped and influenced much of the condition of today's society.

29 5D THINKING

As a result, much of today's understanding of human motivation and enjoyment is disconnected from the real, true source of fulfillment and happiness - being an Abd to The Creator. The in-depth discussion on this topic made me realize that as Muslims, we should move away from self-confidence towards God-confidence as we acknowledge our complete reliance and dependence on the Creator and the Sustainer. This understanding is key in my role as a mother and an educator, as it helps guide my children and students in fulfilling our roles.

Causation vs. Constant Creation The way we studied science has been predominantly centered around the laws of causation. While causation provides a framework for understanding and predicting many phenomena based on observable sequences, the concept of constant creation offers a more holistic view, emphasizing the continuous dependence of all existence on a primary source and challenging the independent power of secondary causes.

Consider the event of a fire burning wood: Causal explanation: The heat from the flame causes a chemical reaction in the wood (combustion), resulting in fire. Wood is the material cause, and heat is the efficient cause; hence, the burning phenomenon is observed.

Constant Creation explanation: At each moment, Allah is creating the fire, the wood undergoing combustion, and the resulting heat and light. The apparent causal link between the flame and the burning wood is due to the consistent way Allah wills these events to occur. The wood doesn't inherently possess the property of being burnable, nor does the flame inherently have the power to burn; both are sustained in their states by continuous creative acts.

Solely believing in causation will lead us into Deism, which posits a belief in a God who created the universe but does not intervene in its ongoing affairs. Deism flourished during the "Enlightenment" period, supposedly characterized by a focus on reason, individualism, and scientific inquiry.

How many muslims have fallen into this trap and remained disconnected from the Creator and the Sustainer, under the pretense of 'scientific knowledge and discovery'. ' These three concepts serve as vital lenses through which we may understand the depths of our being and discern our position within the universe.

The seamless integration of lectures, activities, and the selection of speakers masterfully translated theoretical exploration into tangible, actionable strategies. The energized interaction between speakers and participants offered profound insights and unveiled different perspectives on discussion matters.

Going back to the eye surgery analogy, L1 was akin to the first step in a cataract surgery, where our secularized lens was carefully removed layer by layer, and L2 is the subsequent step whereby a tawhidic lens was put in place to be able to read the universe as an elegant book.

30

MAGAZINE

5D THINKING

31 5D THINKING

INTRODUCING THE SCIENCE SECRETS IN 5 STEPS 5D CURRICULUM In a world thirsty for true knowledge and meaningful education, 5D Thinking brings a revolutionary approach to learning science—an approach that sees beyond facts and figures, connecting every marvel of the universe back to its Maker.

The 5D Thinking LMS offers a rich tapestry of science courses that nurture young hearts and minds through the lens of Divine interconnectedness. From kindergarten to middle school, students journey through the wonders of creation, unveiling the signs (ayat) of Allah hidden within living beings, cosmic systems, and microscopic miracles.

Grade Chapter Subject Level

Beautiful Plants

My Amazing Body

Living and Non-living Wonders

Miracle of Life Marvelous Moos

Seed to Flower - A Plant's Life Cycle

Ants in Action

Marvelous Mammals

Life Cycle of a Frog

Dig Deep - Uncover Soil

The Butterfly's Secret

Sense of Taste

Fantastic Fish My Wonderful Body Beautiful Birds Delicious Food KG

Green Machines - Exploring Plants

Exploring Plants

The Splendid Sun Magnificent Moon

What's On Your Plate?

Gr1

See-Look-Watch Enchanting Earth

Four Seasons Gr2

Rock Riddles Story of Silk

Raindrops to Rivers Soft Snow

Wonderful Weather

Story of Day and Night

Marvelous Materials

Making Work Easy

Happy Hapitats

Amazing Water Cycle

My Shadow, My Buddy Dazzling Desert

Perfect Plate The Skeleton: Your Built-in Bodyguard Rugged Reptiles Jellyfish - The Floating Wonders Gr3 The Bird's Journey: From Eggshell to,Wings

Push, Pull, Play Light - The Divine Spark of Discovery Moon Matters

Underwater Wonderland

Electricity - Sparks in the Sky Forces - The Source of Pulling Power Sounds Surround Us Planetary Parade: Devine Design of Solar System The Art of Comouflage in Arctic & Antarctic Homes

33 5D THINKING

Leafy Chefs: The Recipe of Photosynthesis!

Cells

Evergreen Wonders: A Look at Non-flowering Plants and Fungi

Circulatory System Nutrition

The Tooth Truth: Understanding Our Pearly Whites

Electric Circuits

A Stomach Safari Through The Divine System

Solids, Liquids and Gases

Hidden Transformations: Sublimation and Deposition in the Water Cycle

Stars and Galaxies The Big Bang

Non-Metals Unveiled: Crucial Components of Our World

Weather and Climate

Plant Biology

Mystery of Magnetism

Energy Transformation

Exploring Earth's Layer: Crust to Core Fantastic Food Webs

Energy Flow in Ecosystems

The Marvel of New Life

Symmetry in Structures

The Growing Journey of Humans The Bone Zone: Exploring the Human Skeleton

Sound and Hearing

The Secrets of Polination: Reproduction in Plants

Layers of the Earth

Shining Bright: Exploring the Wonders of Light!

Exploring Reversible and Irreversible Reactions The Interconnected Journey of The Sun, Moon, and Erath Invisible Connections: Electrostatic Forces in Action

Carbon Cycle

Light

Fantastic Forces and Marvelous Motion

Fossils and Evolution

Earth Atmosphere

Adaptation

The Sound that Surrounds Us

Sunlight to Sugars Through Photosynthesis

Excretory System

Ecosystems

Hot and Cool: The Secrets of Heat and Matter

Gr5

Engineering in the Physical World

Forces of Gravity

Majestic and Miraculous Metals

Devine Design in Plant's Adaptation

The Nervous System

Chemical Reactions Gr6

Shape Shifters: The Exciting World of Solids, Liquids, and Gases!

Gr4

The Water Cycle

The Skin

Gr7

Genes and Inheritance Waves and the Electromagnetic Spectrum Conductors and Insulators The Periodic Table

Gr8

Conduction, Convection and Radiation Acids and Bases The Nitrogen Cycle Forces and Motion The Digestive System Simple Mechines

Plant Biology II Pollution and Solutions

Buoyancy

34 MAGAZINE

5D THINKING

5D

WHO WE ARE THE INSTITUTE The Institute of Integrated Knowledge (IIK) is an institute of advanced study, research, and outreach for interdisciplinary exploration and the integrative understanding of existence. The programs offered by it serve as an intellectual platform for academics, intellectuals, educators, researchers, and graduate students. It introduces the Islamic knowledge tradition with its emphasis on viewing the universe not as something self-referential but rather as something that expresses its true meaning by referring to what lies beyond itself.

A prominent initiative by the IIK is the 5D Thinking project, which is based on the idea that ideology-free science and authentic Divine messages do not contradict each other, as they both come from the same source. It assumes that the universe is an elegant book with full of meaning (signs). It considers pure science as a great way to reveal the Divine signs in the book of the universe.

The 5D thinking approach aims to help students to derive character lessons from scientific knowledge. It is expected to help students read the universe like an elegant book conveying Divine messages on how to be a better human being through good character.

Explore the IIK Website here!

35

THINKING

THE TEAM Chief Editor Dr. Necati Aydin

Managing Editor Aisha Alowais

Content Editor Uzma Ahmed

5D Columnist Dr. Saba Ansari

Graphic Designer Said Duran

Motion Designer Mustafa Oztas

Explore the 5D Thinking website here!

Never miss an issue!

Subscribe to the 5D Thinking Magazine

Get your free 5D Thinking educational materials Embark on a quest for deeper understanding Explore the intersection of science and spirituality at your leisure Connect with cosmic insights, accessible anywhere

Follow us on our social media accounts by clicking on the icons below.

www.5dthinking.org