Cosmology, science and Islam?

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I'd like some references to verses in Quran, or hadith, that talk about al-ghaib, the unseen, and how a veil covers the al-ghaib and how humans will never have access to this knowledge.

I would also like any references to science in general, and the knowledge that we are permitted.

I would also like any Quranic references to magic.

And if anyone has a good, concise reference for me on paganism before Islam, I would like a SHORT history on it.


Thanks !