In Islam, the sky (atmosphere/heavens) and the earth are not merely natural phenomena, but deliberate, purposeful, and meaningful creations of the Almighty Allah. The Qur’an and Hadith extensively discuss the grandeur of these creations, their benefits, and the lessons to be drawn from them.
The Majesty of Creation and the Oneness of Allah
Allah says:
"Indeed, your Lord is Allah, who created the heavens and the earth in six days."
— (Surah Al-A'raf 7:54)
He also says:
"We created the heavens and the earth and all that is between them in six days."
— (Surah Qaf 50:38)
These verses prove that the universe is not a random occurrence but a result of a precise and purposeful plan. The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said:
"Indeed, in the creation of the heavens and the earth and the alternation of the night and day, there are signs for those of understanding."
— (Sahih Bukhari 4569)
---
Stages of Creation: Step-by-Step with Divine Planning
According to (Surah Fussilat 41:9–12), the earth was created in the first two days. The next two days were for the formation of mountains, food resources, and a habitable environment. Then, the seven layers of the heavens were created in two days. This structured six-day creation process reflects Allah’s far-reaching and deliberate planning.
Ibn Abbas (RA) narrated that each layer of the heavens and the earth is created with order and a purposeful structure, showcasing Allah’s infinite knowledge.
---
Mercy from the Heavens: Rain and Life
Allah says:
"He sends down water from the sky, with which you produce food."
— (Surah Ibrahim 14:32)
The Prophet (ﷺ) said:
"Allah created one hundred mercies, out of which only one has been sent to the world. Through it, mothers show compassion to their children, and even animals show kindness to one another. The remaining 99 mercies are reserved for the Day of Judgment."
— (Ibn Majah, Hadith 4394)
Rain, clouds, and the water cycle—all originating from the heavens—are essential elements for sustaining life.
---
Sun, Moon, and Stars: Order and Guidance
The Qur’an states regarding the purpose of the sun and moon:
"He made the sun a shining light and the moon a reflected light, so that you may count the years and measure time."
— (Surah Yunus 10:5)
About stars, it says:
"And He created the stars for you so that you may be guided by them."
— (Surah An-Nahl 16:16)
The Prophet (ﷺ) said:
"Stars are the guardians of the heavens; if they disappear, chaos would ensue."
— (Sahih Muslim)
These celestial bodies help humans in determining time, direction, seasons, and form the foundation of many aspects of civilization.
---
Alternation of Day and Night: A Call to Worship and Reflect
Allah says:
"Indeed, in the alternation of the night and the day and in the creation of the heavens and the earth are signs for people of understanding."
— (Surah Al-Imran 3:190)
A true believer reflects on the changes of day and night and is moved to worship the Creator. These divine signs promote deep contemplation and spiritual growth.
---
Source of Science and Inquiry
Islam encourages observation and research. Allah says:
"Travel through the earth and see how He began creation."
— (Surah Al-Mumtahina 60:11)
Nearly 750 verses in the Qur’an deal with nature, creation, and science. For Muslims, this is not just knowledge—it is a component of faith. Historically, Muslim scientists advanced many scientific fields inspired by the Qur'an.
---
Balance of Living Creatures and Environment
Allah says:
"Whatever creature is on the earth and whatever bird flies with wings in the sky—all are His creations."
— (Surah An-Nahl 16:79)
The Prophet (ﷺ) said:
"Showing kindness to any living creature is a sign of faith."
— (Abu Dawood)
Every creature in the ecosystem plays a vital role. To maintain ecological balance, we must act responsibly towards all forms of life.
---
Protection and Management of the Atmosphere
Allah says:
"We made the sky a protected ceiling."
— (Surah Al-Anbiya 21:32)
In scientific terms, this refers to the ozone layer, atmosphere, and Earth's magnetic field—which protect the planet from harmful UV rays and cosmic radiation. This showcases divine protective systems that science is only beginning to understand.
Conclusion
The creation of the heavens and the earth is not merely awe-inspiring beauty but a perfect demonstration of Allah’s power, wisdom, and knowledge. The Qur’an and Hadith urge us to reflect upon this creation so that our faith is strengthened, our God-consciousness increases, and our gratitude toward Allah deepens.
It is our duty to safeguard this trust—the sky and the earth—as a sacred Amanah (trust) from Allah, to reflect upon their wonders, and to shape our lives accordingly. Even in today’s scientific era, the verses of the Qur’an challenge the intellect, inspire curiosity, and guide us to strengthen our relationship with our Creator.
Let us not only gaze at the skies for their beauty, but let our hearts be drawn to the One behind it all—our Supreme Creator. Let us build our lives with gratitude, protect His creation with care, and prepare for the Hereafter.
Allah says:
"They reflect upon the creation of the heavens and the earth, saying, ‘Our Lord, You have not created this in vain. Glory be to You! Save us from the punishment of the Fire.’"
— (Surah Al-Imran 3:191)
May Allah grant us all the ability to take lessons from His signs, strengthen our faith and consciousness, and lead lives of righteous action.
Ameen.
The writer is a columnist & researcher
founder & chairman, national patient welfare society. He can be reached at Email: drmazed96@gmail.com
