Tectonics in the Quran

Quran 27:88 says:
You see the mountains and think they are firmly fixed; but they are moving away just like the clouds are moving away: (such is) the artistry of Allah, Who disposes of all things in perfect order: for He knows all what you do.

The Qur’an does not name “plate tectonics”, yet it accurately describes the movement of mountains. How do we know what causes this movement? Modern science explains it through plate tectonics:

• Plate Tectonics: The Earth’s crust and upper mantle are divided into large plates that move slowly, about 0 to 100 mm per year.
• Continental Drift: This movement causes continents to shift and mountains to slowly move over time.
• Geological Evidence: Plate boundaries create mountains, earthquakes, and volcanic activity, showing that the Earth’s surface is not static.

So, even though the Qur’an does not use scientific terminology, it describes the mountains’ slow movement, which is exactly what modern geology explains through plate tectonics. The verse captures the dynamic nature of Earth’s crust, centuries before it was scientifically understood.

Additional Information

The Qur’an is not a geology or science book, nor do we claim it to be. Its purpose is guidance for humanity, not to teach scientific principles. However, it often points to signs in the natural world that are accurate and observable, like the movement of mountains, the expansion of the universe, or the alternation of day and night, When the Qur’an mentions phenomena in the universe, it usually makes the final statement about what happens without explaining the detailed mechanism. For example, it says mountains move or that the heavens are in motion, but it does not explain why or how, It is up to humans to investigate and understand the causes behind these signs. Modern science often uncovers these mechanisms, such as plate tectonics explaining the movement of mountains, but the Qur’an’s descriptions remain accurate even without scientific terminology, This demonstrates that the Qur’an provides truthful signs for reflection and learning, but its main goal is spiritual and moral guidance, not serving as a scientific textbook.