Mountains In Quran
Pegs are used to fix tents… they have some parts above ground and other parts below ground. So the Quran correctly claims that mountains have parts below ground.
Quran 78:6
And the mountains as pegs?
According to modern Science Mountains do play a role in the earth’s geology and tectonics, and can affect the movement of the earth’s crust in various ways. For example, the weight of mountains can cause the earth’s crust to sink or subside, and the presence of mountains can also influence the patterns of earthquakes and volcanic activity. So, the idea that mountains act as stabilizing pegs is consistent with modern scientific understanding of the role of mountains in the earth’s geology and tectonics, the formation of the Himalayas is a result of tectonic shifts. The process is driven by plate tectonics, which involves the movement of large sections of the Earth’s crust (tectonic plates). The Himalayas were created by the collision of two tectonic plates: the Indian Plate and the Eurasian Plate. About 50 million years ago, the Indian Plate began to move northward towards the Eurasian Plate. When these plates collided, the Earth’s crust was pushed upwards, forming the mountain range. This ongoing tectonic shift continues to push the Himalayas higher at a rate of about 5 millimeters per year.
Reference: Live Science, Depth of Himalayan Mountain Roots Revealed
Quran 21:31
And We have placed firm mountains upon the earth so it does not shake with them, and made in it broad pathways so they may find their way.
Quran 16:15
And He has set on the earth mountains standing firm, lest it should shake with you; and rivers and roads; that ye may guide yourselves.
Quran 79:32
and setting the mountains firmly ˹upon it.
Reference: Do Mountains Cause or Prevent Earthquakes
Quran 27:88
And you see the mountains, thinking them rigid, while they will pass as the passing of clouds. [It is] the work of Allah , who perfected all things. Indeed, He is Acquainted with that which you do.
The lithosphere, which is the rigid outermost shell of a planet (the crust and upper mantle), is broken into tectonic plates. The Earth’s lithosphere is composed of seven or eight major plates (depending on how they are defined) and many minor plates. Where the plates meet, their relative motion determines the type of boundary: convergent, divergent, or transform. Earthquakes, volcanic activity, mountain-building, and oceanic trench formation occur along these plate boundaries (or faults). The relative movement of the plates typically ranges from zero to 100 mm annually, The physical movement of mountains due to tectonic shifts is a scientific explanation for how mountains “move” over time. Tectonic plates, which make up the Earth’s crust, constantly shift due to forces beneath the Earth’s surface. These movements can cause mountains to rise, fall, or even disappear over millions of years. In this way, both are connected to the verse.
- Reference: What is Tectonic Shift
- Reference: Plate tectonics
- Reference: New research reveals that mountains are, in fact, moving all the time
Additional Information
The Qur’an is not primarily a scientific textbook, but it provides signs and guidance that point to the wonders of the universe and creation. Its core purpose is to offer a comprehensive framework for how to live a righteous and purposeful life, guiding humanity in understanding why we are here and how to fulfill our role in this world. While the Qur’an speaks about the natural world and the universe, it does not delve deeply into scientific explanations. Instead, it encourages humans to observe, reflect, and explore the world around them. As the Qur’an mentions, humanity is urged to “Say, ‘Travel through the land and observe how He originated creation. Then Allah will produce the final creation. Indeed, Allah is over all things competent. (Surah Ankabut, 29:20)” and contemplate the creation of the heavens and the earth, the cycles of nature, and the intricate balance of life. These reflections are meant to inspire curiosity and deepen our understanding of the world, leaving space for human discovery and scientific exploration. The Qur’an acknowledges the human capacity for knowledge and exploration, guiding us to seek wisdom through our own efforts and observation, with faith and reverence for the Creator.
