Earth (الأرض) in Islam
The concept of Earth (Arabic: الأرض, transliteration: arḍ) plays a critical role in Islamic theology, philosophy, and cosmology. The structure and significance of Earth as described in Islamic tradition offer rich insights into the Muslim worldview.
Etymology and Linguistic Roots
The Arabic term arḍ (الأرض) translates directly to “Earth.” It is a foundational word in the Qur’an and Hadith, often used to encompass both the physical realm and aspects of the universe broader than our everyday experience.
Islamic Cosmology and the Structure of Earth
Prophet Muhammad taught his followers detailed views on the structure of the universe. One notable tradition outlines that just as there are seven heavens, there are also seven earths, each one below the other. These regions are separated by a distance equivalent to five hundred years’ journey.
Qur’anic References
In the Qur’an, the Earth is described vividly, often depicted metaphorically as being stretched out like a carpet or a bed:
- Surah Al-Baqarah (2:22): “Who made for you the earth a bed (spread out)…”
- Surah Ar-Ra’d (13:3): “And it is He who spread the earth and placed therein firm mountains and rivers…”
- Surah An-Naba’ (78:6): “Have We not made the earth a resting place…”
The ancient commentators interpreted this to mean that Earth is a vast, circular plane. Surah Az-Zumar (39:67) indicates that the Earth will be but a handful in God’s sight on the Day of Judgment, to be transformed into another Earth (Surah Ibrahim 14:48).
Earth in Traditional Islamic Literature
Islamic writings go beyond simple descriptions. They narrate a grander cosmology involving multiple layers and realms:
The Surrounding Sea and Mountains of Qaf
- The Earth is said to be surrounded by al-Baḥru ’l-Muḥīt̤, a vast sea, encircled by the mountains of Qāf. The impressive barrier of Qāf is believed to be made of green chrysolite, imparting a greenish tint to the sky.
Inhabitants and Features
- Makkah or Jerusalem is believed to lie at the Earth’s center.
- The great western sea, often termed Baḥru ‘z̤-Z̤ulmāt (Sea of Darkness).
- The Fountain of Life, located in the Earth’s southwest corner, granting immortality to al-Khiḍr.
The Seven Earths
Each of the seven earths, said to be a journey of five hundred years apart, hosts unique features and beings:
- First Earth: Inhabited by men, genii, and animals.
- Second Earth: Contains the suffocating wind.
- Third Earth: Filled with hell’s stones.
- Fourth Earth: Contains hell’s sulfur.
- Fifth Earth: Home to hell’s serpents.
- Sixth Earth: Houses hell’s scorpions.
- Seventh Earth: Dwelling place of the devil and his angels.
Myths and Symbolism
These rich narratives include the Earth being supported on the shoulders of an angel, who stands upon a ruby rock, which, in turn, is supported by a gigantic bull called Kujūta. Kujūta is supported by a colossal fish known as Bahamūt.
Books for Further Studies
To deepen the understanding of Earth’s role in Islam, you can refer to the following books:
- “The Encyclopaedia of Islam” by C. E. Bosworth.
- “Islamic Cosmology: A Study of as-Suyuti’s al-Hay’a as-saniya” by Paul Lunde.
- “Qur’anic Studies: Sources and Methods of Scriptural Interpretation” by John Wansbrough.
Takeaways and Conclusion
Islamic teachings present a multi-layered and profound cosmological structure of Earth that is rich with symbolism, mythology, and spiritual significance. The Earth is viewed not merely as a physical entity but as interwoven with divine purpose and cosmic realities, indicating the vast and intricate worldview embraced by classical Islamic thought.
