Does the Qur’an Mention a Multiverse? A Reflection on Multiple Heavens

 

The concept of the multiverse — multiple universes existing parallel to one another — is a fascinating idea explored in modern science. While this specific concept is not explicitly mentioned in the Holy Qur’an, several verses allude to the vastness and complexity of Allah’s creation in ways that allow for deep contemplation. Let’s explore some key verses that hint at realms beyond our own.

The Qur'anic Mention of "Seven Heavens"

One recurring term in the Qur’an is "السماوات" (the heavens), often appearing in the plural form and paired with "الأرض" (the earth). This pairing occurs in several verses, and some scholars interpret it as referring to multiple layers or dimensions of creation.

1. Surah Al-Baqarah (2:29)

هُوَ الَّذِي خَلَقَ لَكُمْ مَا فِي الْأَرْضِ جَمِيعًا ثُمَّ اسْتَوَىٰ إِلَى السَّمَاءِ فَسَوَّاهُنَّ سَبْعَ سَمَاوَاتٍ ۚ وَهُوَ بِكُلِّ شَيْءٍ عَلِيمٌ

“He is the One Who created for you everything in the earth, then turned to the heaven, and made them seven heavens. And He has perfect knowledge of all things.”

The phrase "سبع سماوات" (seven heavens) indicates structured, multiple realms beyond the physical sky we observe.

2. Surah Al-Mulk (67:3)

الَّذِي خَلَقَ سَبْعَ سَمَاوَاتٍ طِبَاقًا ۖ مَا تَرَىٰ فِي خَلْقِ الرَّحْمَٰنِ مِنْ تَفَاوُتٍ ۖ فَارْجِعِ الْبَصَرَ هَلْ تَرَىٰ مِنْ فُطُورٍ

“[He] who created seven heavens in layers. You do not see any inconsistency in the creation of the Most Merciful. So return your vision to the sky, do you see any breaks?”

The idea of “layers” suggests a harmonious, tiered design — possibly realms or dimensions beyond our current understanding.

3. Surah At-Talaq (65:12)

اللَّهُ الَّذِي خَلَقَ سَبْعَ سَمَاوَاتٍ وَمِنَ الْأَرْضِ مِثْلَهُنَّ يَتَنَزَّلُ الْأَمْرُ بَيْنَهُنَّ لِتَعْلَمُوا أَنَّ اللَّهَ عَلَىٰ كُلِّ شَيْءٍ قَدِيرٌ وَأَنَّ اللَّهَ قَدْ أَحَاطَ بِكُلِّ شَيْءٍ عِلْمًا

“It is Allah who created seven heavens and of the earth, the like of them. The command descends among them so you may know that Allah is over all things competent…”

This verse has led some scholars to suggest the possibility of multiple earth-like realms, opening the door to reflections on worlds we may never see.

An Expanding Universe?

4. Surah Adh-Dhariyat (51:47)

وَالسَّمَاءَ بَنَيْنَاهَا بِأَيْدٍ وَإِنَّا لَمُوسِعُونَ

"And the heaven We constructed with strength, and indeed, We are [its] expander."

This verse aligns strikingly with modern scientific observations that the universe is expanding — a concept only confirmed centuries after the Qur'an was revealed.

A Final Reflection

While the Qur’an does not directly reference a "multiverse" as defined by modern cosmology, it clearly points to the vastness, structure, and layers of Allah’s creation. These verses inspire awe and humility, reminding us that our knowledge is limited, and that the true extent of the cosmos is known only to Allah.

“And you have not been given of knowledge except a little.”

(Surah Al-Isra, 17:85)

Let us reflect deeply on these divine words, remain curious, and continue to explore the wonders of creation with both faith and reason.

If you found this post insightful, please share it and consider following my blog for more Islamic reflections.