The Quran specifically mentions the development of a human being in the womb in the following verse:
Arabic:
خَلَقَكُم مِّن نَّفْسٍ وَاحِدَةٍ ثُمَّ جَعَلَ مِنْهَا زَوْجَهَا وَأَنزَلَ لَكُم مِّنَ الْأَنْعَامِ ثَمَانِيَةَ أَزْوَاجٍ ۚ يَخْلُقُكُمْ فِي بُطُونِ أُمَّهَاتِكُمْ خَلْقًا مِّن بَعْدِ خَلْقٍ فِي ظُلُمَاتٍ ثَلَاثٍ ۚ ذَٰلِكُمُ اللَّهُ رَبُّكُمْ لَهُ الْمُلْكُ ۖ لَا إِلَٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ ۖ فَأَنَّىٰ تُصْرَفُونَ
Transliteration:
Khalakakum min nafsin wāḥidatin thumma ja‘ala minhā zawjahā wa anzala lakum mina l-an‘āmi thamāniyata azwāj. Yakhluqukum fī buṭūni ummahātikum khalqan min ba‘di khalqin fī ẓulumātin thalāth. Dhālikum Allāhu rabbukum lahu al-mulk, lā ilāha illā huwa fa-annā tuṣrafūn.
Translation:
“He created you from a single soul; then made from it its mate, and He sent down for you of the cattle eight kinds in pairs. He creates you in the wombs of your mothers, creation after creation, in threefold darkness. That is Allah, your Lord; His is the kingdom. There is no deity except Him, so how are you turned away?”
This verse points to the formation of a human within the womb and refers to the “three veils of darkness” that envelop the developing fetus. The phrase has captured the interest of religious scholars as well as scientists.
Understanding the “Three Veils of Darkness”
Both Islamic scholars and modern scientists have discussed the “three veils of darkness,” interpreting them as the protective layers surrounding the fetus. These layers are:
- The Abdominal Wall: The outermost layer consisting of muscles, skin, and connective tissue. It provides the initial layer of protection for the embryo from external physical factors.
- The Uterine Wall: This muscular middle layer (myometrium) supports the embryo as it grows, creating a secure and nurturing environment inside the mother’s womb.
- The Amniotic Sac: The innermost layer is made up of the amnion and chorion membranes. It contains the amniotic fluid, which cushions and protects the fetus while regulating temperature and preventing infections.
Scientific Context
The mention of these layers is remarkable, particularly given the limited scientific knowledge available in the 7th century when the Quran was revealed. The intricate details of fetal development, including the presence of these layers, were not known at the time. Only through modern medical advancements, such as the development of ultrasound technology, were these layers scientifically observed and studied in depth.
The Quran’s alignment with modern embryology has led many to consider this verse as an example of the Quran’s timeless wisdom, showing knowledge of human development long before it was scientifically understood.
Insights from Hadith
The Hadith, which records the sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), also discusses human creation in stages. Abdullah ibn Mas’ud narrates a Hadith in which the Prophet (PBUH) describes the development of the embryo in stages, each lasting forty days, including the nutfah (drop of sperm), alaqah (clinging clot), and mudghah (chewed-like substance). These stages correspond with the embryonic development phases within the womb, further highlighting the significance of the Quranic description.
The “three veils of darkness” serve as a symbol of Allah’s mastery over creation. This verse encourages believers to reflect on the complexity and precision of human development, reminding them of Allah’s infinite wisdom and power. It strengthens the concept of tawhid (the oneness of Allah), emphasizing that such meticulous knowledge can only belong to the Creator who governs all things.
Also, read the The Genetic Code in Plants and Animals