The Scientific and Philosophical Semantics of “Wa al-Samāwātu Maṭwiyyātun bi-Yamīnih” in Qurʾānic Exegesis

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Member of the Faculty of Theology and Islamic Studies - Imam Reza International University (peace be upon her).

2 M.A. Student of Quranic and Hadith Sciences, Imam Reza International University, Mashhad, Iran

Abstract

Objective: This research conducts a semantic and interdisciplinary analysis of the Qur'anic phrase "wal-samāwātu maṭwiyyātun biyamīnih" (al-Zumar/67) to examine its lexical and exegetical dimensions and its constructive correlation with contemporary cosmological findings.
Methods: Employing qualitative content analysis and a comparative approach, the meanings of key lexical items were extracted from authoritative lexicographic and Qur'anic sources, and the interpretations of prominent exegetes (including al-Ṭabarī, al-Zamakhsharī, and ʿAllāmah Ṭabāṭabāʾī) were analyzed. Furthermore, within the framework of the "constructive interaction of science and religion" theory, the concept of maṭwiyyāt was examined in relation to the scientific model of the "Big Crunch".
Findings: The findings indicate that within the exegetical tradition, this phrase simultaneously alludes to the physical dimension and the eventual end of the cosmic order, and serves as a symbol of absolute divine power and the return of existence to the Creator. Moreover, a significant structural similarity exists between the Qur'anic concept of the "folding up of the heavens" and the scientific "Big Crunch" hypothesis. This alignment does not imply complete correspondence but rather demonstrates the Qur'an's capacity for constructive engagement with scientific discoveries, wherein science elucidates the "how" and religion articulates the "why" and the "ultimate purpose" of the phenomenon .
Conclusion: This research emphasizes that a profound comprehension of Qur'anic concepts such as maṭwiyyāt necessitates a holistic approach - one that, while remaining faithful to the theological foundations of the text, facilitates a constructive dialogue with human knowledge and presents an integrated vision of the cosmic order.

Keywords

References

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The Quran and Science
Volume 19, Issue 37 - Serial Number 37
January 2026
Pages 325-356

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History

  • Receive Date: 08 March 2026
  • Revise Date: 07 November 2025
  • Accept Date: 04 December 2025

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