The Qur'an does not merely convey spiritual and moral values to humanity; it also contains profound scientific insights. Several verses related to astronomy provide information about the origin, expansion, and features of the universe. These verses often align with modern scientific discoveries, affirming the scientific miracles found in the Qur'an.
The Origin of the Universe and the Big Bang
In Surah Al-Anbiya, the Qur'an describes the creation of the universe:
“Do not those who disbelieve see that the heavens and the earth were a joined entity, then We separated them and made from water every living thing? Will they not then believe?”
(Al-Anbiya, 21:30)
This verse closely resembles the modern Big Bang theory. Scientists have confirmed that the universe was once in a dense, hot state and then expanded into its current form. Although the theory was introduced in the 20th century, the Qur'an revealed this truth over 1,400 years ago.
According to the Big Bang theory, the universe originated from a compressed, high-temperature point and has since expanded to its current size. Evidence such as cosmic background radiation and the observable expansion of galaxies support this theory.
The Expansion of the Universe
Scientific research shows that the universe is expanding — a theory proven in the 20th century by Edwin Hubble. The Qur'an had already mentioned this reality long before:
“We constructed the heaven with strength, and indeed, We are [its] expander.”
(Adh-Dhariyat, 51:47)
When scientists discovered that the universe is not static but constantly expanding, it was a revolutionary breakthrough. Observations made using the Hubble telescope confirmed that the universe evolves according to specific laws and had a definite beginning.
The Movement of the Earth and the Sun
It was once believed that the Earth was stationary, but scientific studies later revealed that both the Earth and the Sun are in motion. The Qur'an refers to this:
“The sun and the moon [move] by precise calculation.”
(Ar-Rahman, 55:5)
“It is not allowable for the sun to reach the moon, nor does the night overtake the day, but each, in an orbit, is swimming.”
(Ya-Sin, 36:40)
These verses describe how celestial bodies move in their respective orbits, obeying physical laws. Like other stars in the universe, the Sun orbits the center of the Milky Way galaxy, completing one revolution approximately every 225–250 million years.
Dark Matter and the Hidden Secrets of the Universe
Although modern science still does not fully understand the concepts of dark matter and dark energy, the Qur'an hints at the existence of unknown elements:
“The unseen of the heavens and the earth belongs only to Allah…”
(An-Naml, 27:65)
Today, it is believed that 95% of the universe consists of elements that remain unexplained to humanity. Scientists continue to investigate dark matter and energy, though their true nature remains a mystery. These Qur'anic verses remind us that many secrets of the cosmos are still beyond human understanding.
Stars and Their Death
Modern astrophysics confirms that stars are born, grow, and eventually die. The Qur'an reflects this cosmic reality:
“When the sun is darkened…”
(At-Takwir, 81:1)
“And We did not create the heavens and earth and everything between them in play.”
(Ad-Dukhan, 44:38)
These verses indicate that celestial bodies change over time and are created with purpose.
Scientists explain that our Sun will eventually expand into a red giant and then shrink into a white dwarf — following the natural lifecycle of stars. This demonstrates that the cosmic system is governed by divine laws.
Conclusion
The scientific realities described in the Qur'an correspond with modern astronomical discoveries. This confirms that the Qur'an is not just a religious text, but also a source of deep knowledge about the origin and structure of the universe. The harmony between Qur'anic revelation and scientific discovery further supports its divine origin.
Today’s scientific advancements help us better understand Qur'anic verses. The scientific truths mentioned in the Qur'an are a divine invitation from Allah for humanity to observe and explore the universe. As science and technology progress, the Qur’an’s messages become clearer and more meaningful.
As the infinite mysteries of the universe unfold, the signs given in the Qur'an become increasingly evident. In this magnificent system created by Allah, humanity still stands at the beginning of a long journey — and the Qur'an remains a guiding light to understand that path.