The Qur’an on the Expanding Universe and the Big Bang Theory
The Qur’an on the Expanding Universe and the Big Bang Theory
Introduction
The Qur’an, revealed over 1,400 years ago, contains verses that describe the origins and structure of the universe. These descriptions align remarkably well with modern scientific theories, such as the Big Bang theory and the expansion of the universe, which were only established centuries later. For believers, these scientific connections are yet another sign of the Qur’an’s divine origin.
The Big Bang in the Qur’an
Modern cosmology holds that the universe began with a massive explosion of energy and matter from a single, extremely dense point — known as the Big Bang — about 13.8 billion years ago. The Qur’an refers to a similar concept:
“Have those who disbelieved not considered that the heavens and the earth were a joined entity, and We separated them and made from water every living thing? Then will they not believe?”
(Surah Al-Anbiya 21:30)
Key points in this verse:
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“Joined entity” suggests that the heavens and earth were once together in a single form.
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“We separated them” parallels the Big Bang, in which the universe rapidly expanded from a singular state.
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The mention of water as the basis of life aligns with modern biology, which recognizes water as essential for all living organisms.
The Expanding Universe in the Qur’an
One of the most significant discoveries in 20th-century astronomy, made by Edwin Hubble in 1929, is that the universe is expanding — galaxies are moving away from each other, and space itself is stretching. The Qur’an mentioned this concept long before telescopes existed:
“And the heaven We constructed with strength, and indeed, We are [its] expander.”
(Surah Adh-Dhariyat 51:47)
Key points in this verse:
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“We constructed” reflects the intentional creation of the universe.
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“We are expander” (in the original Arabic mūsiʿūn) directly implies a continuous expansion, not a one-time act.
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This description perfectly matches the scientific understanding that the expansion of the universe is ongoing.
Scientific Confirmation
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The Big Bang Theory – Supported by observations of cosmic background radiation and the distribution of galaxies.
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Expansion of Space – Proven through redshift measurements, showing that distant galaxies are moving away at speeds proportional to their distance.
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Water as the Origin of Life – Confirmed by biology, chemistry, and the study of exoplanets, where the search for life often starts with the search for water.
Why This Is Significant
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The Qur’an’s description came at a time when prevailing beliefs often held that the universe was eternal and unchanging.
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These scientific facts were unknown to humanity until advancements in astronomy and physics in the 20th century.
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The precise alignment between Qur’anic verses and modern cosmology suggests divine knowledge beyond human capacity.
Conclusion
The Qur’anic verses on the creation and expansion of the universe provide powerful signs for reflection. They encourage believers to appreciate the harmony between faith and reason, and invite skeptics to reconsider the source of such knowledge. The Qur’an’s alignment with the Big Bang theory and the expanding universe is not a claim of science within religion, but a reminder that the Creator of the universe is also the Revealer of the Qur’an.
“We will show them Our signs in the horizons and within themselves until it becomes clear to them that it is the truth.”
(Surah Fussilat 41:53)
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