Collection: The Meeting of the Seas

Modern Scientific Discovery:

Scientists have discovered that when two seas or large bodies of water meet, they do not immediately mix due to differences in temperature, salinity, and density. Instead, a natural barrier—called a halocline or thermocline—forms between them, preventing immediate mixing while allowing slow diffusion.

🔬 Key Scientific Facts:

• This phenomenon occurs in places like the Gibraltar Strait (Atlantic Ocean & Mediterranean Sea) and the Gulf of Alaska, where two water bodies meet but retain their unique properties.
• Satellite images and oceanographic studies confirm that a distinct boundary exists between these waters due to variations in density and salinity.
• This knowledge was discovered only in the 20th century with the advancement of marine research and oceanography.

Qur’ānic Revelation:

مَرَجَ ٱلْبَحْرَيْنِ يَلْتَقِيَانِ ١٩
بَيْنَهُمَا بَرْزَخٌۭ لَّا يَبْغِيَانِ ٢٠

English Translation:

"He merges the two bodies of water, yet between them is a barrier so neither of them transgresses."
📖 (Qur’ān 55:19-20)

Scientific Explanation:

The Qur’ān’s description of two seas meeting yet remaining separate is scientifically accurate. The term "بَيْنَهُمَا بَرْزَخٌ" (baynahumā barzakhun) refers to a barrier or partition, precisely describing the natural halocline that prevents the waters from mixing instantly.

Why is this amazing?

• No human at the time of revelation had the means to observe this phenomenon—it can only be seen with modern scientific equipment.
• Sailors or fishermen may have noticed different water colors, but the Qur’ān’s description of a barrier maintaining distinct properties is a discovery only confirmed by modern oceanography.
• The word choice in the Qur’ān is precise—"they meet, but they do not transgress," exactly reflecting what we see in scientific studies.

Conclusion:

This verse is a powerful example of how scientific discoveries align with Qur’ānic revelations. The fact that the Qur’ān described this oceanic phenomenon over 1400 years ago, long before marine science could explain it, is yet another sign of its divine knowledge.