Varicolored Strata In Quran
The Rainbow Mountains of China, especially in the Zhangye Danxia Landform Geological Park, are famous for their striking layers of red and white sandstone of varying shades, along with darker rock bands. These colors result from minerals deposited over millions of years and shaped by tectonic forces and erosion.
đQuran 35:27
And in the mountains are tracts, white and red of varying shades and intensely black.â
The Qurâan uses the word âmountainsâ in plural, pointing to a widespread geological phenomenon, not a single mountain, but various mountains around the world that share these remarkable features.
This verse accurately describes the natural appearance of real-world formations like:
- The Rainbow Mountains in China, with layered red and white bands of varying tones, plus dark rock formations.
- Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain) in Peru, with vivid red and white mineral layers of differing shades and darker patches.
While these mountains display many colors, including yellow, orange, green, and brown, the Qurâan highlights the most dominant and striking colors visible to the eye: white, red of varying shades, and black, The phrase âvarying shadesâ also include other tones we see, like yellow, orange, and green, since these often appear as natural extensions or mineral-based variations of red and white layers, The mention of âvarying shadesâ reflects the diversity in mineral content, erosion, and geological layering, making the Qurâanic description both visually accurate and scientifically sound, Most astonishingly, this verse was revealed in 7th-century Arabia, a desert environment with no access to or awareness of such colorful mountain ranges. The Arabs at the time could not have known about Rainbow Mountains in China and Peru.
Reference: Zhangye Danxia Landform or Rainbow Mountains
Reference: Vinicunca
Additional Information
The Qurâan 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 Qurâan 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 Qurâan mentions, humanity is urged to âSay, âTravel 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)â 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 Qurâan 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.