Chapter One: Exploring the Universe and Seven Skies: Quranic & Scientific Insights

The Cosmic Story Begins

In the spirit of exploration, let us embark on a journey into the heart of our existence. This story is a profound one—it encompasses the birth of our universe, the evolution of life, and the mysteries that continue to unfold.

Exploring Ancient Knowledge

Our quest takes us to the very beginnings, a staggering 14 billion years ago. You might have gazed upon the night sky and spotted the familiar constellation known as the Ursa Major, or the Dubb e Akbar in Arabic and Urdu. Its central star holds a secret—a tiny red speck known as GN-z11, the farthest galaxy known to us. This celestial marvel is a testament to the vastness of our journey.

But here's the astonishing part: the light from GN-z11 takes a staggering 14 billion years to reach us, a reminder of the immense cosmic timeline we are about to traverse. However, 99.9985% of this timeline unfolded long before humanity made its appearance. How, then, can we hope to witness the very birth of the universe?

To peer into the cosmic cradle, we must free ourselves from the constraints of time and embark on an exploration of knowledge that unravels the true story of creation.

What Science Reveals

In our quest, science plays a pivotal role. Cosmogony, the study of the universe's birth, has illuminated our path. In 1964, an astounding discovery rocked the scientific community. Arno Penzias and Robert Wilson stumbled upon cosmic microwave background radiation—a pervasive energy permeating the entire universe. It was unlike any energy emitted by stars, planets, or constellations. It was as if an echo from a colossal explosion, the Big Bang, reverberated throughout the cosmos, shaping everything from the skies to the earth and all that lies in between.

The Enigma of Science

Yet, with scientific advancement comes enigma. The horizon problem emerges as we observe cosmic microwave background radiation stretching across unimaginable distances—up to 46 billion light-years in some directions, a mere 0.3 million light-years in others. It defies our understanding of physics and the constancy of light's speed, posing questions about the very fabric of reality and time itself.

Ancient Wisdom

Science, while a powerful tool, possesses its limitations. This journey, therefore, invites us to explore the wisdom of ancient civilizations that existed long before modern science emerged. Their narratives and creation myths hold a key to the cosmic story.

In 1849, archaeologist Austin Henry unearthed Enuma Elish, a collection of clay tablets from Nineveh. These ancient tablets, inscribed over 3,500 years ago, speak of a creation story—a time when sky, earth, and all existence were but water, untouched by human destiny. This tale alludes to the existence of an eternal order set forth by a divine being.

Challenging Ancient Myths

As we scrutinize the narratives of ancient civilizations, it's impossible to ignore certain elements that may appear peculiar or even ridiculous in the light of modern knowledge. For instance, some myths depict the Earth being held in golden chains or the creation process involving a crow. These tales, although colorful, do not align with our contemporary understanding.

Upon closer examination, it becomes evident that the common thread in these narratives is the presence of a mighty force—referred to as "The God." This singular entity, who existed alone, is credited with creating everything from water, often over a span of six or seven days.

Exploring the Quranic Perspective

It's intriguing to note that this identical message appears to have been disseminated to every corner of the world, albeit through different messengers and at various times. This phenomenon underscores the existence of a branch of knowledge beyond science—a realm embraced by 85% of the world's population—known as "Religion."

However, the diversity of religious beliefs poses a profound question. With over 3,000 different religions worldwide, each asserting its authenticity, the challenge lies in determining which, if any, offers the ultimate truth.

In our quest for answers, let's delve into the major religions and ancient philosophies that have shaped human spirituality.

Judaism: This ancient religion asserts that the Earth is flat, floating on water, with heaven above and hell below. Creation unfolds under the divine hand of God.

Christianity: As the world's largest religion, Christianity maintains that God created the universe, with the Earth at its center. All celestial bodies are thought to revolve around our planet, and creation, as per some interpretations, occurred a mere six to seven thousand years ago.

Greek Philosophy: The Greeks, influential thinkers even today, believed in a godly creation of the universe. In their cosmology, a goddess named Andromeda scattered her milk across the sky as she traveled, forming the "Milky Way."

Eastern Religions: Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism assert that the universe is eternal, without a definitive beginning or end. According to these beliefs, it has always existed and will continue to exist.

While these perspectives offer unique insights, they also raise pressing questions.

The Problem with Other Religions

For instance, if the Earth is truly flat, why do different parts of the world experience morning and evening simultaneously? Shouldn't a flat Earth mean synchronized time for all regions? Furthermore, the presence of approximately 4,550 satellites orbiting the Earth contradicts the notion of a flat planet.

If Christianity's six- to seven-thousand-year timeline is accurate, it becomes perplexing to explain the existence of GN-z11, the farthest galaxy, the light of which reaches us after 14 billion years.

The diverse interpretations within Christianity, each presenting a different version of the Bible, add another layer of complexity to the puzzle.

A Religion that Has All the Answers

Amidst these questions, one religion stands out—the religion of Islam. Emerging in Arabia around 1400 years ago, Islam has made its mark as the world's second-largest religion. In the Quran, Islam's holy book, there are intriguing parallels to the narratives of creation.

What Does Quran Say?

One Quranic chapter, Anbiya, alludes to the union of the Earth and sky before their separation, providing a glimpse into the concept of cosmic expansion. The Quran also frequently mentions the creation of the Earth and sky in "six days." But what do these "days" signify? Were they the same as our conventional 24-hour days?

Here, the Quran diverges from other religious texts by addressing the concept of time. Unlike many religions, it acknowledges the fluidity of time. The chapters of Hajj and Maa'rij touch upon the shifting properties of time, introducing a nuanced understanding of temporal concepts.

Olber's Paradox and the Quran

One of the enduring mysteries of the cosmos is Olber's paradox, which questions why the night sky isn't ablaze with starlight. The Quran offers an intriguing perspective in its chapter on the Sun, where it speaks of the night covering and the creation of darkness. This enigmatic reference may provide a unique interpretation of Olber's paradox.

As we continue our journey, we are drawn deeper into the mysteries and revelations of the Quran, a book that boldly proclaims its veracity.

Understanding the Sky

Our connection with the sky is ancient and profound. For centuries, humans have gazed skyward, pondering the mysteries that lie above. We've even bestowed names upon those who hold a special affinity for the sky: "nephophile" for sky and cloud enthusiasts, "ceraunophile" for those captivated by the sky's roars, "pluviophile" for rain aficionados, "astrophile" for star admirers, and "selenophile" for moon lovers.

But what exactly is the sky? Before we delve into this question, let me share an intriguing experience. Prior to crafting this chapter, I conducted interviews with 20 individuals, posing a simple question: "What is the sky in your opinion?" The responses were as diverse as they were fascinating. Some perceived the "blue thing" above as the sky, while others envisioned a distant "white shield." Clouds, too, were considered by some as the sky. Indeed, the interpretations were vast and intriguing.

What is Sky through Science?

Now, let's turn to science to demystify the concept of the sky. That "blue thing" we often associate with the sky is, in fact, the Earth's atmosphere. It appears blue because when sunlight penetrates our atmosphere, it consists of seven colors, with blue being the shortest wavelength. During evening hours, the blue gradually fades, giving way to red, as the sun nears the horizon. This transformation occurs because the atmosphere near the horizon is nearly 38% denser than the atmosphere overhead.

But how high does this atmosphere extend? Science provides answers. The atmosphere is divided into layers, and just six and a half miles above us lies the troposphere. Almost all of Earth's weather, including clouds, rain, and storms, unfolds within this atmospheric layer. Even those distant-looking clouds reside within the troposphere.

Beyond the troposphere, there's the stratosphere, extending about 31 miles high. This layer is renowned for the ozone layer, which shields our planet from harmful solar radiation. Some commercial flights operate within the lower reaches of the stratosphere, while spy jets navigate the middle regions.

Ascending further, we reach the mesosphere, spanning 53 miles. Conditions here are inhospitable, with temperatures plummeting to -90 degrees Celsius and minimal air or oxygen. When meteorites venture into this realm, they ignite in blazing displays.

Continuing upward, we encounter the thermosphere, a 300-mile-thick expanse. This region hosts most of our satellites and gives birth to the mesmerizing aurora lights—nature's captivating celestial show.

Yet, beyond all this lies an imaginary boundary known as the Kármán line. It marks the commencement of vast expanses of empty space, stretching trillions and trillions of miles into deep space. It's a place where the light from GN-z11 takes a staggering 14 billion years to reach us.

But where does the concept of "sky" fit into all of this? What lies above this boundary? Science can't venture beyond this point, leaving us to wonder about the mysteries that might exist there.

Concept of Sky in Quran

Turning to the Quran, we find intriguing references to the sky that beckon further exploration. The Quran mentions the descent of water from the sky at least 22 times, a phenomenon that's familiar to us. However, the watery clouds we witness are a mere 2 kilometers above us, so there's more to decipher.

Intriguingly, the Quran refers to the sky as a "safe roof" at least three times. It goes further to emphasize that this "safe roof" is secured to prevent it from falling. This suggests a protective aspect of the sky, guarding us from something above. Could the sky, in this context, represent the Earth's protective layers, such as the ozone layer?

Our exploration of the Quran's insights into the sky has only just begun. There are verses in the Quran that speak of the sky as a recurring entity, implying a cyclical nature in its interactions with the Earth's climate. This aligns with our understanding of the atmosphere's influence on weather patterns.

Additionally, the Quran mentions the sun, stars, and moon as elements of the sky. It speaks of stars decorating the sky, hinting at their celestial beauty. There's even mention of pillars in the sky—an intriguing concept we'll explore further.

However, before we venture deeper into the Quran's revelations about the sky, let's remember that this book holds valuable insights into creatures, pathways, and destiny related to the sky. The Quran's comprehensive perspective offers us a unique lens through which to examine the cosmos.

Creation of Seven Skies

The concept of the seven skies, as elucidated in Islamic tradition, opens a door to a realm of profound wonder. These skies are said to be crafted from an otherworldly material known as "raqiya," a substance of divine origin. According to Surah Rahman, attempting to breach these heavens can unleash smoke upon the daring traveler—a testament to their unfathomable nature.

Islamic tradition, including the Hadith of Mira'aj, tells us that the first sky is now home to Adam and Eve. Some traditions even suggest that the prophet Muhammad once encountered an angel named Habib here. What sets this sky apart is its unique composition, being built half of fire and half of ice.

But let's delve deeper into the enigma of the water that comprises these skies. An intriguing historical account involves a letter from the Roman Emperor Heraclius to Mua'wiya (r.a). In this letter, Heraclius sought answers to questions often pondered by people, with the caveat that the responses should stem exclusively from the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w). Among these queries was a reference to "mujarra," an elusive term. Ibn Abbas (r.a) was entrusted with the task of deciphering this enigmatic word. His response depicted "mujarra" as a door in the sky, an impermeable barrier where not even temperature can pass. A mystifying revelation suggests that "mujarra" is a living liquid, a water imbued with life, though this particular tradition awaits further verification.

If this tradition holds true, it implies that the first sky is composed of living water—an awe-inspiring concept. Beyond this, we encounter doors in the sky that defy comprehension, blocking not just physical entities but even the passage of temperature itself.

Above the first sky lies the second, known as "aazfiloun." This sky is said to be crafted from white pearls and is believed to be the abode of prophets Eissa (Jesus) and Yahya (John the Baptist).

As we ascend further, we encounter the third sky, "qaidoum," constructed from pure iron. According to some traditions, this sky is where Prophet Youssef (Joseph) resides, and it's also associated with Hazrat Izraeel (a.s), the angel of death.

Continuing our ascent, we reach the fourth sky, "maaou'na," a realm of pure brass. Within this sky, we find Prophet Idrees (a.s) and an angel known as "kisfaa'eil," who holds dominion over the tears of creation.

The fifth sky, "riqqa," is a breathtaking expanse crafted from pure silver. Here, Prophet Haroon (Aaron) resides, and it's also the domain of Malik, the custodian of hell. Malik oversees enigmatic angels known as "zabaaniyah," as mentioned in Surah Alaq.

But our celestial journey is far from over. Above this comes the sixth sky, "daqna'a," a realm of pure gold and crimson gemstones. This is the abode of Prophet Musa (Moses), where the splendor of a sky adorned in gold and rubies unfolds before our imagination.

Before we embark on the next phase of our journey, take a moment to envisage a sky adorned with pure gold and red rubies. Imagine its magnificence, its sheer opulence. And within this sky, we encounter a remarkable entity—the Lote Tree of the Farthest Boundary. Its roots reach down into the sixth sky, while its branches stretch high into the seventh.

Surah Najm provides a glimpse of this grand tree, adorned with leaves as expansive as large pots and golden beetles that grace its presence. Muhammad (s.a.w) recounts that on the night of ascension, when this tree was unveiled in the divine light of Allah's decree, its colors assumed an otherworldly hue, beyond the comprehension of any earthly being.

And now, we arrive at the seventh sky, "areeba," also known as "araboth" in the people of the book's tradition. This sky is woven from a light so transcendent that human understanding falters in its radiance. Within its celestial embrace resides Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), and here, a unique threshold exists. The branches of the Lote Tree can extend no further, marking a boundary where anything ascending from below halts, and all that descends from above finds its destination.

But what lies beyond this wondrous realm?

Above the Seven Skies

From this juncture, I tread carefully and ask that you listen with unwavering attention. Beyond the seventh sky, a breathtaking revelation awaits.

Above the seventh sky stands the Throne of God, upheld by eight magnificent angels. This celestial throne is crafted from red rubies, a testament to its divine grandeur. Above it rests the grand chair—an awe-inspiring sight.

This is the culmination of all knowledge, encompassing not only human understanding but the wisdom of the ages. Beyond this, there is the Lord of the Throne, Allah, the Creator of all things—your Creator, my Creator, the Creator of every word I have written or spoken.

When writing about what lies above the Throne, I'm seized by a profound reverence. To the right of the Throne, there exists a place where everything is inscribed—an ethereal repository known as "Loh-e-Mahfooz." Allah has fashioned it from pure white pearls, its pages comprised of red rubies, and its writing etched in light. Herein, every detail about everything that ever was or will be is recorded. It is the foundation of divine knowledge, safeguarded in the embrace of an angel.

Allah, the Lord of everything, gazes upon it 360 times each day. The comparison becomes clear: the seven skies, vast as they may seem, are like rings in a boundless desert when set against the Throne. The Throne, in turn, is but a speck in the boundless expanse when compared to the grand chair.

Take a moment and contemplate what you've just heard. Can your mind truly grasp these unfathomable expanses? Can I, with my words, convey the full measure of this greatness? Perhaps not. These mysteries were never meant to be fully comprehended by any creation.

The Word of God

Do you recall my earlier statement that cultures worldwide speak of a mighty force that created everything with words? Yet, these cultures often left the specifics of those words shrouded in mystery.

Even theoretical physics has proposed its own theory—the existence of multiple universes that collide after eons, driven by an unimaginably powerful force like gravity or an unknown force beyond our ken. These words might perplex you, but as I penned them for this chapter, I couldn't help but smile. For within the Quran, I found mention of this unimaginable force—an omnipotent power that speaks worlds into existence with a mere command.

This universe and its boundless mysteries have long been a source of inquiry for humanity. During a visit, Imran Bin Hussain once heard the Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w) narrate the creation of the universe. As the Prophet unraveled the tale of Allah's timeless existence, the prophet's discourse was interrupted by a commotion—a camel had broken free.

Imran gave chase, longing to hear the prophet's teachings. Later, he lamented that he wished he had let the camel go and stayed to hear the revelations. He pondered how much wisdom and knowledge might have been unveiled that day. How many secrets remained concealed due to his camel's escape?

Imran Bin Hussain's sentiments resonate with many. I, too, wish that Imran had stayed and heard those divine revelations. For within those teachings lay the answers to questions that have intrigued humanity for eons.

What is Yet to Come?

Today's chapter is but a prologue to our journey. In the chapters that follow, we will delve deeper into the mysteries of the universe, guided by the Quran, Hadith, and modern scientific knowledge. May Allah bless you as we embark on this voyage of discovery.