Astronomy, geology, meteorology, and embryology are just a few of the topics discussed in the Koran. Upon closer inspection, one will come across an insight here or there about something that relates to our universe. The creation of pairs and the real source of iron are two interesting topics picked from an array of others.

Creation of Pairs

Allah says in the Koran: “Glory be to Him Who created all the pairs, of that which the earth grows, and of themselves, and of that which they know not” (36:36). At first glance, this verse appears to be talking about the creation of the male and female in all species, including humans. Upon further study, however, scholars conclude that there is a hidden meaning in “that which they know not.”

In 1933, British scientist Paul Dirac was awarded the Nobel Prize for his discovery of antimatter. He proposed that matter is paired with its opposite: antimatter. For example, matter contains positively charged protons and negatively charged electrons, while antimatter contains negatively charged protons and positively charged electrons. The pair of matter and antimatter is believed by scholars to be the creation “that which they know not.” Nevertheless, there could be more examples of hidden pairs of creation that are yet undiscovered.

Alien Element

Modern astronomical findings have documented that iron found on Earth has come from outer space. When stars explode, they throw their fragments in every direction. These fragments are often made up of about 90 percent iron. A fragment travels through space until it comes within a gravitational force, such as Earth's, pierces through the atmosphere like a fireball, and hits the ground at a tremendous force. This is called a meteorite.

Years ago—nearly 30,000 years and earlier—Earth was frequently pummeled by these meteorites. Scientists theorize these meteorites are responsible for the extinction of some species. With each meteorite, the earth's supply of iron increased. The Koran agrees: “We sent down iron, wherein is mighty power and (many) uses for mankind …” (57:25). According to this verse, iron found in the earth came from above, conforming to scientific fact.