Collection: Mountains & Earthquakes

Modern Scientific Discovery:

Recent geological studies have revealed that mountains play a significant role in stabilizing the Earth's crust. They have deep roots that extend beneath the surface, acting like pegs that anchor the Earth’s tectonic plates. This helps in minimizing large-scale tremors and maintaining geological stability. This concept is well understood in plate tectonics, where mountains form at the boundaries of colliding tectonic plates, providing structural reinforcement.

Qur’ānic Revelation:

وَأَلْقَىٰ فِي ٱلْأَرْضِ رَوَٰسِيَ أَن تَمِيدَ بِكُمْ وَأَنْهَٰرًا وَسُبُلًا لَّعَلَّكُمْ تَهْتَدُونَ

English Translation:

"He has placed into the earth firm mountains, so it does not shake with you, as well as rivers, and pathways so you may find your way."
(Qur’ān 16:15)

Scientific Explanation:

The Qur’ān describes mountains as stabilizers of the Earth, a statement that aligns with modern geological findings. The Arabic word "رَوَٰسِيَ" (rawāsiya) means firmly fixed mountains, highlighting their function as stabilizers. The phrase "أَن تَمِيدَ بِكُمْ" (an tamīda bikum) suggests preventing the land from shaking, which corresponds to the role of mountains in reducing seismic activity and maintaining crustal balance.

Conclusion:

This verse is a clear example of the scientific accuracy within the Qur’ān, revealed at a time when humans had no knowledge of plate tectonics or the deep-rooted nature of mountains. It serves as a powerful sign of divine wisdom and invites reflection on the intricate design of our planet.