The Universe came into existence from the single unit within the light of Islam & Hadith
Introduction
One of the most intriguing questions humanity has pondered is the origin of the universe. Science posits that the entire cosmos was once condensed into a single, infinitely dense point before expanding outward—a concept known as the Big Bang Theory. Interestingly, the Quran mentioned a remarkably similar concept over 1400 years ago, at a time when human knowledge about the universe was extremely limited. This article explores the universe’s origin in the light of the Quran, Hadith, and scientific evidence to show that Islam and science are in harmony on this subject.
Quranic Perspective: The Universe Was One Entity Before Expansion
1. Surah Al-Anbiya (21:30) – The Universe Was a Single Unit
Allah (SWT) says in the Quran:
“Do the disbelievers not see that the heavens and the earth were a single entity, and We split them apart? And We made every living thing from water. Will they not then believe?” (Surah Al-Anbiya 21:30)
This verse contains two major revelations:
- The heavens and the earth were once a single entity—a concept that aligns closely with the modern Big Bang Theory, which states that the universe was once a singularity.
- They were separated—just as the Big Bang describes the sudden expansion of the universe from an initial point.
The Quran describes the same process that modern cosmology describes but in simple, eloquent language that could be understood in every era.
2. Surah Adh-Dhariyat (51:47) – The Universe is Expanding
“And the heaven We constructed with strength, and indeed, We are [continually] expanding it.” (Surah Adh-Dhariyat 51:47)
Science has confirmed that the universe is continuously expanding (as discovered by Edwin Hubble in 1929). This Quranic verse not only hints at the expansion but states it as an ongoing process—proving once again that the Quran contained knowledge that science only recently discovered.
Hadith References on the Universe’s Creation
Although the Quran contains the primary revelations about cosmic origins, some Hadiths also shed light on this topic.
1. Hadith on the Creation of Everything from Nothing
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:
“Allah existed, and there was nothing besides Him.” (Sahih al-Bukhari 3191, Sahih Muslim 2713)
This hadith aligns with the scientific understanding that before the Big Bang, there was nothing—no space, no time, no matter—except for Allah’s existence.
2. Hadith on the First Creation Being Light
The Prophet (PBUH) said:
“The first thing Allah created was light.” (Tirmidhi 2155)
This Hadith can be correlated with scientific findings, as the earliest moments of the universe were filled with intense radiation and light before matter formed.
Scientific Perspective: The Big Bang Theory
The Big Bang Theory states that the universe began as a single point (a singularity) and expanded outward, forming galaxies, stars, and planets over billions of years. Key scientific discoveries supporting this theory include:
- Hubble’s Discovery (1929): The universe is expanding, meaning it was once much smaller.
- Cosmic Microwave Background Radiation (CMBR, 1964): The remnant heat from the initial explosion, proving the universe had a hot, dense origin.
- The Formation of Galaxies: Astronomical observations show that galaxies formed over time from an initial, compact state.
These findings confirm what the Quran stated 1400 years ago about the universe beginning as a single entity before expanding.
Islamic and Scientific Harmony: A Logical Comparison
| Quranic Concept | Scientific Concept |
|---|---|
| “The heavens and the earth were a single entity, and We split them apart.” (21:30) | The Big Bang: The universe was once a singularity and then expanded. |
| “And We are [continually] expanding it.” (51:47) | The universe is still expanding, as proven by Hubble’s discovery. |
| “And We made every living thing from water.” (21:30) | Science confirms that water is essential for life. |
| “The first thing Allah created was light.” (Tirmidhi 2155) | The universe’s earliest moments were filled with radiation and light. |
These similarities prove that Islam and science are not contradictory; rather, scientific discoveries confirm what was already revealed in the Quran.
Common Objections and Their Answers
1. “The Quran does not mention the Big Bang directly.”
True, but it describes the same process in different words. The term “Big Bang” itself is a modern label. The Quran provides a thematic explanation rather than scientific jargon.
2. “Science changes, but the Quran is constant.”
Science is an ever-evolving process, but fundamental discoveries (like the universe’s expansion) remain unchanged. The Quran provides eternal truths, while science works to uncover them over time.
3. “Science is separate from religion.”
Islam does not separate science from faith; rather, it encourages the study of the universe as a sign of Allah’s power.
“Say, ‘Observe what is in the heavens and the earth…’” (Surah Yunus 10:101)
This shows that seeking scientific knowledge is an act of worship in Islam when done with the right intentions.
Conclusion: Islam and Science are in Harmony
The Quranic description of the universe’s origin aligns with modern scientific discoveries. The idea that the universe was once a single point (or a singularity) before expanding is found in both Islamic teachings and scientific theories. This reinforces the divine nature of the Quran and proves that Islam is not opposed to science but rather encourages its pursuit.
By studying both Islam and science, we can gain a deeper appreciation of Allah’s creation and strengthen our faith in His infinite wisdom.
Final Thoughts: Reflect on Allah’s Signs
The Quran invites us to reflect on the universe and seek knowledge:
“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)
The more we study science, the more we see proof of Allah’s existence and wisdom. May Allah grant us the understanding to appreciate His creation and increase our faith.
If you found this article insightful, share it with others so they too can see the connection between Islam and science.