The Quran, the book of Islam, is more than just a spiritual guide; it is also a source of deep knowledge about the universe. The Quran talks about the creation and structure of the universe and asks us to reflect on the signs of Allah’s creation.
In this blog we will explore what the Quran says about the universe in simple language so everyone can benefit from this divine wisdom.
The Creation of the Universe
One of the most amazing things about the Quran is the description of the creation of the universe.
The Quran reveals that the heavens and the earth were once one entity before splitting apart, closely aligning with the modern scientific concept of the Big Bang Theory.
The verse in Surah Al-Anbiya (21:30) says:
“Have they not considered that the heavens and the earth were one entity and We split them and made from water every living thing? Then will they not believe?”
This verse is saying the heavens and the earth were once united and then separated, which is very close to the scientific concept of the origin of the universe.
And the mention of water as the source of all life is another deep wisdom, which shows how important water is for life on earth.
The Expanding Universe
Another amazing thing about the Quran is the mention of the expanding universe. Modern science confirms that the universe is expanding, a fact that people did not know when the Quran was revealed.
The verse in Surah Adh-Dhariyat (51:47) says:
“And We constructed the heaven with strength and indeed, We are [its] expander.”
This verse is saying the universe is not static but is expanding. The word “expander” is very close to the current concept that galaxies are moving away from each other and hence the universe is expanding.
Scientists made this discovery in the 20th century, but the Quran hinted at it 1,400 years ago.
The Creation of the Heavens and the Earth in Six Days
The Quran also talks about the time it took for the creation of the heavens and the earth. According to the Quran Allah created the universe in six days but these “days” are not the 24 hour days we experience on earth. The Quranic concept of “days” can mean long periods or stages.
In Surah Al-A’raf (7:54) it is mentioned:
“Indeed your Lord is Allah who created the heavens and earth in six days and then established Himself above the Throne. He covers the night with the day, [another night] chasing it rapidly; and [He created] the sun, the moon, and the stars, subjected by His command. Unquestionably, His is the creation and the command; blessed is Allah, Lord of the worlds.”
This ayah shows the process of creation in a systematic and orderly manner, the wisdom and power of Allah.
The mention of sun, moon and stars shows the interconnectedness of all things in the universe, each playing a role in the balance of creation.
The Balanced Universe
The Quran talks about the balance and order in the universe, nothing in creation is random or without purpose.
The universe exists in perfect balance, with everything created in proportion and measure
In Surah Ar-Rahman (55:7-9)
“And the heaven He raised and balanced and He weighted. So that you not exceed in the balance. And weigh in justice and do not make deficient the balance.”
This ayah shows the importance of balance in the universe, a concept that is also in modern science. The balance of forces in the universe like gravity is necessary for the structure and stability of galaxies, stars and planets.
The Quranic balance is a reminder of the intricate design and order in all creation.
The Celestial Bodies: Sun, Moon and Stars
The Quran mentions many celestial bodies, the sun, moon and stars. These heavenly bodies are signs of Allah’s power and wisdom, each has a role in the universe.
The Quran mentions the sun and moon as sources of light and time markers, while it describes the stars as both decorative and functional.
In Surah Ya-Sin (36:38-40) it is mentioned:
“And the sun runs to its setting. That is the determination of the Exalted in Might, the Knowing. And the moon We have determined for it phases until it returns like the old date stalk.
It is not allowable for the sun to catch up the moon nor does the night overtake the day, but each is swimming in an orbit.”
This ayah shows the exact movement of the sun and moon, each in its path. The Quranic description of orbits is amazing as it was not known in science until centuries later.
Purpose of Creation
The Quran also talks about the purpose of the universe’s creation, that it was created with truth and meaning. The universe is not by chance but part of a plan, a sign for those who reflect.
In Surah Al-Imran (3:190-191) it says:
“Indeed in the creation of the heavens and the earth and the alternation of the night and the day are signs for those who understand.
Those who remember Allah standing sitting or lying down or on their sides and give thought to the creation of the heavens and the earth, [saying] Our Lord You did not create this in vain; glorified are You; then protect us from the punishment of the Fire.”
These verses ask the believers to contemplate the creation of the universe and recognize the signs of Allah’s existence and power.
The Quran asks the readers to reflect on the natural world and understand that everything in creation has a purpose, points to the Creator.
End of the Universe
The Quran also talks about the end of the universe, known as the Day of Judgment. This is the time when the heavens and the earth will change, marking the end of the current order of creation.
In Surah Az-Zumar (39:67) it says:
“They have not appraised Allah as He deserves, while He will roll up the earth in His hand on the Day of Resurrection and fold the heavens in His right hand.” Exalted is He and high above what they associate with Him.
This verse shows the power of Allah and the transience of the universe. The Quran uses the folding of the heavens as a metaphor for the end of time and the start of a new reality where everyone will face accountability for their deeds.
Conclusion – The Quran Exploring the Signs of Creation
The Quran gives us a deep perspective of the universe, as a creation full of signs of Allah’s power, wisdom and purpose.
The descriptions of the creation, expansion, balance and end of the universe in the Quran matches many of the modern scientific discoveries, yet they were revealed 1400 years ago.
These verses ask the believers to reflect on the natural world, recognize the signs of the Creator and appreciate the design of the universe.
As we go deeper into the cosmos the Quran remains a timeless source of knowledge, guiding humanity to understand the universe’s meaning and purpose.
By contemplating the signs of creation we can strengthen our faith and appreciate the divine wisdom that governs all.
