The term Multiverse Quran refers to the widespread concept of Islam somehow endorsing the concept of parallel universes or multiverse. A debate on the Internet emphasizes that the Quran mentions seven earths and seven skies. And this is somehow related to the parallel-universe theory. We will discuss the matter in detail and try to find how things work.
Quran talks about a universe that is
expanding, and the kingdom of God that is far and wide. The subject of the Quran is “Philosophy of life,” “Importance of Life,” “Creation of life,” Relationship between Creator and the Creation,” and the “Code of Life.” However, Quran is not a book of science. And the expectation of humans from the Quran to talk about when, why, and how litmus paper should turn red or blue appear childish.
Let’s take a look at the verses that make people think about Islam endorsing Parallel Universe or Multiverse Quran perspective. Read the verse below:
Allah it is who hath created seven heavens, and of the earth the like thereof. The commandment cometh down among them slowly, that ye may know that Allah is Able to do all things, and that Allah surroundeth all things in knowledge.
Surah at-talaq – 12. Surah At-Talaq – 12 | Quran.com. (n.d.). https://quran.com/65/12.
Commentary on Multiverse Quran
The concept of Multiverse or Parallel Universe is not a fact, rather a theory to endorse the explanation of life on earth and to facilitate the big bang theory. Therefore, it is inappropriate to compare the idea with the verses of Quran.
Islam does not teach to align the concept of Multiverse with this concept of seven heavens and earth. It is also essential to understand the nature of the two entirely different subjects. The knowledge of science is dynamic, it means that the information scientists gather and publish is not absolute/unchangeable and can change over time.
There are events where we discard the scientific facts altogether as our knowledge updates, and the previously-known fact is now an extreme fallacy. Whereas, the knowledge or wisdom of the Quran is static. And addresses subjects that have to deal with the life of humans till resurrection in Islam.
In the above verse, Quran talks about seven earths and seven heavens. However, it does not talk about if they are only seven or more than seven. It is crucial to understand the context of each verse of the Quran before concluding ideas as there is no room for a reinterpretation of the Quran by promoting ideas never taught by the prophet of God, Mohammed (saw).
Thus any conclusions can be wrong without supportive argument from “the context of revelation” = “shan-e-nazool,” and the “prophetic interpretation.” And the exploration of the universe will always remain a subject of competition and arguments, where a good debater will win his arguments the fame and publicity.
Importance of exploring universe in Islam
We should understand that Islam does endorse pondering on creation, life, physics, chemistry, biology, and various aspects of life. However, the objective behind such educational activities should be the service to the people and the benefit of humans. In the verses below we can see that God says in the Quran about paying emphasis on the creation and finding the purpose in life. And Quran calls only smart people to those who try to find and explore these mysteries. It also exemplifies the purpose of creation by making it to worship God.
The concept of worshipping God in Islam is not limited to certain worships or rituals like other religions. Every act of kindness, struggle, faith, and performance for peace and scholarship is an act of worship. Providing food to the poor and struggling for justice, standing for the oppressed, and every action to create a stable society.
Lo! In the creation of the heavens and the earth and (in) the difference of night and day are tokens (of His Sovereignty) for men of understanding,
Surah Al-i ‘IMRAN – 190. Surah Ali ‘Imran – 190 | Quran.com. (n.d.). https://quran.com/3/190?translations=19.
Such as remember Allah, standing, sitting, and reclining, and consider the creation of the heavens and the earth, (and say): Our Lord! Thou createdst not this in vain. Glory be to Thee! Preserve us from the doom of Fire.
Surah Al-i ‘IMRAN – 191. Surah Ali ‘Imran – 191 | Quran.com. (n.d.). https://quran.com/3/191?translations=19.
Closing remarks on Multiverse Quran.
Quran hold the laws, code of conduct, code of criminal procedure, philosophy of life, code of justice, creation of life, destiny of life, and other ideas of spiritual nature. Although, Quran encompasses the knowledge of here and hereafter, but there should be no debates on mere assumptions, hypothesis or theories. Read more about parallel universe.
