An Anatomical Description of The Quranic Verse: Three Veils of Darkness in Surah Al Zumar

Abstract

Human development is a complex process discussed in many texts, including the Qur’ān. One of the verses describing human embryology is Surah Al-Zumar, 39:6 (…He creates you in the wombs of your mothers: creations after creation in three veils of darkness…). Exploring the different anatomical aspects when translating Qur’ānic terms is essential. These nuances often carry unique interpretations and perspectives worth examining, revealing deeper layers of meaning not fully captured in traditional translations. This manuscript aims to present a biological perspective in translating the phrase or terms “three veils of darkness” used in the Qur’ānic verse with appropriate anatomical terminologies. The sources for this article include the Qur’ān, Hadiths, and published literature. Some Arabic words in the cited verse are elaborated from a slightly different biological perspective compared to available translations. In this manuscript, the “three veils” mentioned in surah Al-Zumar are defined as the uterine, chorionic, and amniotic cavities. By refining and expanding the anatomical correlates of each “veil,” this study intends to offer a clearer and more precise interpretation that builds upon and improves the original hypothesis, while maintaining its original context and significance across different linguistic settings. This additional viewpoint on the links between Qur’ānic words and modern anatomical terms highlights the remarkable language of the Holy Book, bestowed upon us by Allah the Almighty.