The history of the relationship between scriptural interpretation and the rise of modern science is complex and convoluted. Within the so-called Abrahamic religions of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, the relationship was intimately close from the Middle Ages to early modern era but became distant during the final decades of the twentieth century.

Key texts

When scholars in the Abrahamic traditions have addressed the relationship of science and religion, they have emphasized scriptural texts that assert God's role and activity as creator, sustainer, and governor of the universe. Key texts from the scriptures of Judaism and Christianity include the following:

• Genesis 1:1–28 31; 2:1–25; 5:1–2; 9:6
• Exodus 20:11
• 1 Samuel 2:8
• 2 Kings 19:15
• 1 Chronicles 16:26
• Nehemiah 9:6
• Job 9:8–9;...