Index

The Lower Heavens

The Lower Heavens

What is meant by the lower heavens that are mentioned in the holy Koran?

If we contemplate the galaxies of the universe, we will realize that such galaxies consist of billions of stars and such stars adorn the sky and heavens. It could be said, therefore, that all the stars and galaxies that we see around us are within the boundaries of the lower heavens because Allah, the Exalted, says in the holy Koran (meaning), “So He completed them as seven firmaments in two days, and He assigned to each heaven its duty and command. And We adorned the lower heaven with lights, and (provided it) with a guard. Such is the decree of (Him) the Exalted in Might, Full of Knowledge.” (Sura Fussilat, ayah 12).

Lights in the above ayah means stars and we know that stars are outside the solar group and that the closest star to us in planet earth is 4.3 light years away, i.e. all the stars we see adorn the first or lower heavens. As for the other heavens, only Allah, the Omniscient, knows their boundaries.

BY ABDULDAEM AL-KAHEEL

2026-09-01 (Rabi-ul-awwal 1448) №9.


The Treasures of Our Hearts

In the hustle and bustle of our days, amidst the challenges of modern times, we sometimes sorely lack guidance, living examples of how to remain faithful, feminine and strong.   Allah, in His boundless mercy, has granted us such examples – the wives of the Prophet ﷺ. Their lives are...


Fire, Ash, Faith: A Tatar Ark in the Land of the Rising Sun

This story begins with silence. With that special, ringing, dense silence that descends only after the final explosions have died down, entire neighborhoods have burned to the ground, and the wind has begun to lazily blow ash flakes across the scorched earth, like black, mournful...


Mountains in the Koran and their Geological Significance

Mountains are among the most majestic and impressive natural forms, captivating humanity for centuries. However, the Koran places particular emphasis not only on their beauty but also on their geological role. One ayah states (the meaning of the commentary): “And We have placed mountains on...


Social Media and Children

Social media have opened up for us countless opportunities for engaging with diverse communities and cultures.   This has led to a number of positive consequences, including intellectual and cultural openness, broadening horizons and stimulating scientific research. Furthermore, social...


Ismail’s Dirham of the Samanid Dynasty

Saman, a native of the city of Balkh, is considered the founder of the Samanid dynasty.   He converted to Islam and enjoyed the patronage of the governor of Khorasan. His grandsons Nuh, Ahmad, Yahya and Ilyas served the caliph himself and by his order, the governor of Khorasan appointed them...