Scientific Errors in the Quran: Difference between revisions

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There is a big picture that is missed by apologists when they contest the various types of [[Islam and Science|scientific]] [[Contradictions and Errors|errors]] in the [[Qur'an]] by appealing to metaphor, other possible meanings for a word (many of which claims are inaccurate), or phenomenological language. Even supposing that another interpretation was possible in every case, the wording and content of these verses often reflect the popular mythology and misconceptions of the time, and are such as you’d expect if that was what the author had in mind, with no clear attempt to make it distinct from the mythology or misconceptions. Take collectively the many verses that suggest geocentrism, for example. Such statements, very avoidably, reinforced false notions that people had at the time and later provided plenty of reason to doubt the claims of a divine origin.
Muslims claim that the Qur’an contains a message from an all-powerful, all-knowing, infallible being.  If this is true then it should not contain any errors, mistakes, or information that contradicts known facts about the universe.  If even one error exists in the text of Islam's holy book then the claims of divine authorship and infallibility are not true.  An objective evaluation of the Qur’an shows that it contains numerous scientific and historical errors and it reflects a pre-scientific, 7th century view of the natural world.
 
 
This in itself is a major weakness that a human author would avoid if he knew better, let alone the concept of a divine author whose work would be beyond any weakness, let alone such a comprehensive weakness over an extensive revelation. Such a being would be able to entirely foresee how such statements would be understood and the doubts they would cause later.
Some Muslim apologists will contest these numerous [[Islam and Science|scientific]] [[Contradictions and Errors|errors]] in the [[Qur'an]] by appealing to metaphor, alternative meanings, or [[w:Phenomenology (philosophy)|phenomenological]] interpretations of the text. Even if we suppose that alternative explanations were possible in every case, the wording and content of the Quranic verses often mimic the popular mythology and unscientific misconceptions of the time in which they were recorded.  The author of the Qur’an makes no clear or unambiguous statements that differentiate his understanding of the natural world from the common folklore of the people living in the 7th century. If the Qur’an was delivered by an all-powerful, all-knowing being then he would have been able to foresee how such ambiguous and misleading statements would be understood by future generations and the doubts and confusions they would cause. This alone should be reason to reject any claims to its divine authorship.
 
==Evolution==
 
The Qur'an advocates [[creation|creationism]]. It is incompatible with the thesis of human evolution from simpler life forms and natural selection. This is not very controversial as [[Muslim Statistics - Science#Evolution|reliable statistics]] on the subject have shown most Muslims agree Islam and evolution are not compatible.
 
===Human created from clay===
{{Main|Creation of Humans from Clay}}
 
The scientific hypothesis postulates that clay merely 'match-makes' RNA and membrane vesicles - and therefore does not form a building block. This is contrary to the Islamic faith which postulates that human beings were created ''from'' clay, implying clay was a building block.
 
{{Quote|{{Quran|15|26}}|
We created man from sounding clay, from mud moulded into shape; }}
 
{{Quote|{{Quran|2|117}}|
To Him is due the primal origin of the heavens and the earth: When He decreeth a matter, He saith to it: "Be," and it is. }}
 
===Humans were created from a single being===
 
Some apologists will claim this is consistent with modern scientific knowledge because scientists refer to individuals labeled as [[W:Mitochondrial Eve|Mitochondrial Eve]] and [[W:Y-chromosomal Adam|Y-chromosomal Adam]]. This is a bad misunderstanding since these are the terms for the last common male and female ancestors of everyone alive today, not of all humans in history. Incidentally, the Qur'an clearly states Eve was created later than (and from) Adam. [[W:Mitochondrial Eve|Mitochondrial Eve]] lived some 50,000 to 80,000 years earlier than [[W:Y-chromosomal Adam|Y-chromosomal Adam]]. More to the point, genetic studies indicate that humans diverged from earlier species as a population, not a single couple. See [http://biologos.org/blog/does-genetics-point-to-a-single-primal-couple] and [http://whyevolutionistrue.wordpress.com/2011/09/18/how-big-was-the-human-population-bottleneck-not-anything-close-to-2/].
 
{{Quote|{{Quran|7|189}}|
"He it is Who created you from a single being, and of the same (kind) did He make his mate,"  }}
 
===Creation of humans happened in an instant===
 
{{Quote|{{Quran|2|117}}|
"To Him is due the primal origin of the heavens and the earth: When He decreeth a matter, He saith to it: "Be," and it is" }}
 
===Fall from paradise down to the earth===
 
{{Quote|{{Quran|2|36}}|
"Then did Satan make them slip from the (garden), and get them out of the state (of felicity) in which they had been. We said: "Get ye down, all (ye people), with enmity between yourselves. On earth will be your dwelling-place and your means of livelihood - for a time."  }}


==Astronomy==
==Astronomy==
===The sun set into the murky water===
{{Main|Dhul-Qarnayn and the Sun Controversy in the Qur'an}}
The Qur'an propagates a popular myth from that time and region that a man visited the places where the sun sets and rises and found that the sun goes into a muddy spring.
{{Quote|{{Quran|18|86}}|
Until, when he reached the setting of the sun, he found it set in a spring of murky water: Near it he found a People: We said: "O Zul-qarnain! (thou hast authority,) either to punish them, or to treat them with kindness."}}


=== Geocentricism===
=== Geocentricism===
{{Main|The Geocentric Qur'an}}
{{Main|The Geocentric Qur'an}}


The Qur'an mentions numerous times that the Sun and the Moon travel in an orbit, but does not mention once that the Earth does too. This is consistent with the [[w:Geocentric model|beliefs]] that were prevalent prior to the 16<sup>th</sup> century that the Sun revolved around the Earth.
The Qur'an mentions numerous times that the Sun and the Moon travel in an orbit, but does not mention once that the Earth does too. This is consistent with a [[w:Geocentric model|earth-centered]] view of the cosmos that places a motionless earth at the center of the universe and all "heavenly bodies" travel around the earth.  This was the prevailing understanding of the universe prior to the 16<sup>th</sup> century when [[w:Copernicus|Copernicus]] helped explain and popularize a [[w:Heliocentric|sun-centered]] view of the universe.


{{Quote|{{Quran|36|38}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|36|38}}|
And the Sun runs his course for a period determined for him: that is the decree of (Him) the Exalted in Might, the All-Knowing.}}
And the Sun runs his course for a period determined for him: that is the decree of (Him) the Exalted in Might, the All-Knowing.}}


The moon and the sun orbit the earth.
{{Quote|{{Quran|36|40}}|
It is not for the sun to overtake the moon, nor doth the night outstrip the day. They float in an orbit.}}


{{Quote|{{Quran-range|91|1-2}}|
Some Muslim apologists try to explain away the Quranic description of the sun moving in an orbit as a reference to our sun orbiting the black hole at the center of the milky way galaxy.  This is an [[w:Ad hoc hypothesis|Ad hoc hypothesis]] and nothing from the text implies that the sun is orbiting anything other than the earth. If the author had knowledge of the sun orbiting a black hole then it is conspicuous that he never mentions it explicitly nor in any way differentiates the sun's orbit from that of the moon.
By the Sun and his (glorious) splendour;
By the Moon as she follows him; }}


Fixed.
In the Qur'an, the moon and the sun orbit the earth together.  There is no distinction made between the moon, which actually revolves around the earth, and the sun which only appears to revolve around the earth when in fact the suns movement through the sky is a product of the rotation of the earth around its axis.


{{Quote|{{Quran|35|41}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran-range|91|1-2}}|
Verily! Allah grasps the heavens and the earth '''lest they move''' away from their places, and if they were '''to move''' away from their places, there is not one that could grasp them after Him. Truly, He is Ever Most Forbearing, Oft Forgiving.}}
By the Sun and his (glorious) splendour; By the Moon as she follows him; }}
 
Fixed.
 
{{Quote|{{Quran|40|64}}|
It is God who made for you the earth '''a fixed place''' and heaven for an edifice; And He shaped you, and shaped you well, and provided you with the good things. That then is God, your Lord, so blessed be God, the Lord of all Being.}}
 
Sun and moon orbit around the earth.


{{Quote|{{Quran|21|33}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|21|33}}|
And He it is Who created the night and the day, and the sun and the moon. They float along in an orbit.}}
And He it is Who created the night and the day, and the sun and the moon. They float along in an orbit.}}
Sun orbits the earth.


{{Quote|{{Quran|14|33}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|14|33}}|
And maketh the sun and the moon, constant in their courses, to be of service unto you, and hath made of service unto you the night and the day. }}
And maketh the sun and the moon, constant in their courses, to be of service unto you, and hath made of service unto you the night and the day. }}


The sun moves, the earth is still.
The author of the Qur'an emphasis that the earth is fixed in place and motionless.  He is clearly unaware that the earth is not only revolving around the sun, but also spinning on it's axis.


{{Quote|{{Quran|2|258}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|35|41}}|
Hast thou not Turned thy vision to one who disputed with Abraham About his Lord, because Allah had granted him power? Abraham said: "My Lord is He Who Giveth life and death." He said: "I give life and death". Said Abraham: "But it is Allah that causeth the sun to rise from the east: Do thou then cause him to rise from the West." Thus was he confounded who (in arrogance) rejected faith. Nor doth Allah Give guidance to a people unjust. }}
Verily! Allah grasps the heavens and the earth '''lest they move''' away from their places, and if they were '''to move''' away from their places, there is not one that could grasp them after Him. Truly, He is Ever Most Forbearing, Oft Forgiving.}}


The shadow moves because of the sun's movement, not the earth's movement.
{{Quote|{{Quran|40|64}}|
It is God who made for you the earth '''a fixed place''' and heaven for an edifice; And He shaped you, and shaped you well, and provided you with the good things. That then is God, your Lord, so blessed be God, the Lord of all Being.}}


{{Quote|{{Quran|25|45}}|
===Setting and Rising Place of the Sun===
Hast thou not turned thy vision to thy Lord?- How He doth prolong the shadow! If He willed, He could make it stationary! then do We make the sun its guide; }}
{{Main|Flat Earth and the Qur'an}}


Everything in the universe goes around us.
The Qur'an assume a flat earth which has a fixed place where the sun sets and a fixed place where the sun rises again.  Since the earth is a rotating sphere, the sun doesn't set in any particular place and you can never travel to "the spot" where the sun sets nor a place where it rises; the sun appears to set or rise on the horizon no mater where you are on the planet. In these verses, the author propagates a popular legend from the 6th century of a man named Dhul-Qarnayn who visits the places where the sun sets and rises; here he finds the [[Dhul-Qarnayn and the Sun Setting in a Muddy Spring|sun going down into a muddy spring]] and later rising on a tribe with no coverings.


{{Quote|{{Quran|45|13}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|18|86}}|
And He has made subservient to you whatsoever is in the heavens and whatsoever is in the earth, all, from Himself; most surely there are signs in this for a people who reflect. }}
Till, when he reached the setting-place of the sun, he found it setting in a muddy spring, and found a people thereabout. We said: O Dhu'l-Qarneyn! Either punish or show them kindness. }}


The stars are small enough to drop on us.
{{Quote|{{Quran|18|90}}|
Until, when he came to the rising of the sun, he found it rising on a people for whom We had provided no covering protection against the sun. }}


{{Quote|{{Quran|81|2}}|
Some Muslim Apologists have come up with creative interpretations of these verse to say that Dhul-Qrnayn only traveled until reached a spot "at the time" when the sun set and not the "place" where the sun set.  Unfortunately the [[Dhul-Qarnayn_and_the_Sun_Setting_in_a_Muddy_Spring_-_Part_One#Second_interpretation:_He_reached_.5Ba_place_at.5D_the_time_of_sunset_and_sunrise_or_he_reached_those_times|context and Arabic words]] used in the verse point to a physical location.  Again, we must ask why an all-knowing being would use such vague and misleading verses if he was simply trying to relate a time at which a person reached his destination.
And when the stars fall}}
 
Stars or planets rising and setting?
 
{{Quote|{{Quran|81|16}}|
The stars which rise and set}}
 
This verse clearly implies the sun goes around the earth.
 
{{Quote|{{Quran|36|40}}|
It is not for the sun to overtake the moon, nor doth the night outstrip the day. They float in an orbit.}}


===Shooting stars are missiles for devils===
===Stars are Missiles Shot at Devils===
{{Main|Deceptive Translations of Qur'an 67:5}}
{{Main|Deceptive Translations of Qur'an 67:5}}


Meteors appear to be missiles to shoot the devil away. This was a prevalent myth in Arabia. As we now know, meteors are simply masses of particle debris which brighten up after entering the earth's atmosphere.
The author of the Qur'an does not seem to know the difference between stars (giant balls of gas thousands of times larger than the earth) and meteorites which are small rocky masses of debris which brighten up after entering the earth's atmosphere.  Many ancient people confused the two, as meteorites look like stars that are streaking across the sky; this is why there were often called [[w:Meteoroid|shooting stars]] or falling stars.  In the following verse, the Qur'an claims that Allah uses stars as missiles to ward away devils.  This repeats a common Arab myth at the time the Qur'an was first recited.


{{Quote|{{Quran|67|5}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|67|5}}|
Line 120: Line 61:
Except such as snatch away something by stealth, and they are pursued by a flaming fire, of piercing brightness.}}
Except such as snatch away something by stealth, and they are pursued by a flaming fire, of piercing brightness.}}


===How many planets in the solar system according to the Quran?===
===Moon is Further from the Earth than the Stars===
 
{{Main|A Qur’anic Understanding of the Universe}}
This verse claims there are seven planets. However, according to astronomers, there are eight ordinary planets and five dwarf planets, which leaves the grand total at thirteen.
 
{{Quote|{{Quran|65|12}}|
Allah is He Who created seven Firmaments and of the earth a '''similar number'''. Through the midst of them (all) descends His Command: that ye may know that Allah has power over all things, and that Allah comprehends, all things in (His) Knowledge. }}
 
====Tafsir Ibn Abbas explains they are all flat planets====
 
The paternal cousin of Muhammad and conspicuous expert on [[tafsir]] (interpretation of the Qur'an) writes that Allah means that all 7 are flat planets.
 
{{Quote|Tafsir Ibn-Abass | Allah is He who created 7 heavens one above the other like a dome, and of the Earths, the like thereof, 7 planets but '''they are flat'''}}
 
===The Moon is further away than the stars===


The moon is located in the middle of the universe.
The Qur'an claims that the moon is located in the middle of the universe and stars are in the nearest/lowest part of the universe.  [[w:List of nearest stars|The nearest star]] to our solar system is 4.24 light years (4x10<sup>13</sup>km) away and over 100 million times further away then the moon. Clearly the Quranic author has no idea that the vast majority of stars in the night sky are billions upon billions of light-years away.


{{Quote|{{Quran|71|15-16}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|71|15-16}}|
See ye not how Allah has created the seven heavens one above another,
See ye not how Allah has created the seven heavens one above another,
'And made the moon a light in their '''midst''', and made the sun as a (Glorious) Lamp}}
'And made the moon a light in their '''midst''', and made the sun as a (Glorious) Lamp}}
But stars are in the nearest/lowest part of the universe.


{{Quote|{{Quran|37|6}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|37|6}}|
Surely We have adorned the nearest heaven with an adornment, the stars}}
Surely We have adorned the nearest heaven with an adornment, the stars}}


===Night time cold is caused by the Moon===
===Moon Emits Light===


The Qur'an's author assumed by what he observed because the Moon does not affect Earth's temperature in any manner.
The moon does not emit it's own light but simply reflects light coming from the Sun. The Arabic word for reflected (in`ikaas) does not appear in this Quranic verse that says the Moon is a "light". It instead uses the word "Noor" which is used to denote an entity that emits light
 
{{Quote|{{Quran|76|13}}|
Reclining in the (Garden) on raised thrones, they will see there neither the sun's (excessive heat) nor (the moon's) excessive cold. }}
 
===The moon is "Noor", which emits light too===
 
The moon does not emit light. The Arabic word for reflected (in`ikaas) does not appear in this sentence.


{{Quote|{{Quran|71|16}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|71|16}}|
And hath made the moon a light therein, and made the sun a lamp?}}
And hath made the moon a light therein, and made the sun a lamp?}}


The word "Noor" here also means an entity that emits light.
The word "Noor" is also used in these verse to show that Allah is the "light" of the universe. Clearly the author is not implying that Allah reflects light from another source but is the source of the light.


{{Quote|{{Quran|24|35}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|24|35}}|
  Allah is the Light of the heavens and the earth. The Parable of His Light is as if there were a Niche and within it a Lamp: the Lamp enclosed in Glass: the glass as it were a brilliant star: Lit from a blessed Tree, an Olive, neither of the east nor of the west, whose oil is well-nigh luminous, though fire scarce touched it: Light upon Light! Allah doth guide whom He will to His Light: Allah doth set forth Parables for men: and Allah doth know all things.}}
  Allah is the Light of the heavens and the earth. The Parable of His Light is as if there were a Niche and within it a Lamp: the Lamp enclosed in Glass: the glass as it were a brilliant star: Lit from a blessed Tree, an Olive, neither of the east nor of the west, whose oil is well-nigh luminous, though fire scarce touched it: Light upon Light! Allah doth guide whom He will to His Light: Allah doth set forth Parables for men: and Allah doth know all things.}}


===Moon split in two===
===Moon was Split in Two===
{{Main|Moon Split Miracle}}
{{Main|Moon Split Miracle}}


There is no evidence whatsoever that the moon has ever split into two. The absence of historical record from other civilizations, contemporary of Muhammad about the moon being split substantiate to this fact.
The Qur'an and Hadith claim that the moon was miraculously split into two pieces and then, presumably, put back together again.  There is absolutely no scientific evidence whatsoever that the moon has ever been split into two. Since the moon is visible to half the planet at any given time, we should expect to see numerous accounts from different parts of the world attesting to this event if it actually happened. The Romans, Greeks, Egyptians, Persians, Chinese and Indians had avid astronomers who should have seen this event and recorded it in their histories. The absence of historical record from other civilizations, contemporary to Muhammad, is a strong indication that this event never happened.


{{Quote|{{Quran|54|1}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|54|1-3}}|The hour drew nigh and the moon did rend asunder. }}
The hour drew nigh and the moon was rent in twain. }}


===The universe, earth or its atmosphere consists of 7 layers===
{{Quote|{{Bukhari|4|56|831}}|Narrated Anas: "That the Meccan people requested Allah's Apostle to show them a miracle, and so he showed them the splitting of the moon."}}
{{Main|Earth Made of Seven Layers}}
 
===Seven Planets in the Universe===
{{Main|A Qur’anic Understanding of the Universe}}


The universe consists of trillions of galaxies with billions of stars each. There is no such thing as seven layers to the universe.
This verse claims there are seven planets. However, according to astronomers, there are eight ordinary planets and five dwarf planets, which leaves the grand total at thirteen in our solar system. Modern astronomy also has found hundreds of other planets in other solar systems and Cosmologists estimate that hundred of billions of stars and planets exist in the universe. The author of the Qur'an singling out such a small number of celestial objects only reaffirms his ignorance of the makeup of the universe.


{{Quote|{{Quran|71|15}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|65|12}}|
See ye not how Allah has created the seven heavens one above another}}
Allah is He Who created seven Firmaments and of the earth a '''similar number'''. Through the midst of them (all) descends His Command: that ye may know that Allah has power over all things, and that Allah comprehends, all things in (His) Knowledge. }}


There are only 5 not 7 principal layers to the [[W:Atmosphere of Earth|Earth's atmosphere]], and likewise only 5 not 7 major layers to the Earth itself.
The paternal cousin of Muhammad and conspicuous expert on [[tafsir]] (interpretation of the Qur'an) writes that Allah means that all 7 planets are flat planets.


{{Quote|{{Quran|65|12}}|Allah is He Who created seven heavens, and of the earth the like of them; the decree continues to descend among them, that you may know that Allah has power over all things and that Allah indeed encompasses all things in (His) knowledge.}}
{{Quote|Tafsir Ibn-Abass | Allah is He who created 7 heavens one above the other like a dome, and of the Earths, the like thereof, 7 planets but '''they are flat'''}}


===The Sun is not a star===
===Seven Heavens===
According to Islam, the Sun and stars are two completely different things. Modern science tells differently:
{{Main|A Qur’anic Understanding of the Universe}}


{{Quote|{{Quran|7|54}}|
The universe consists of hundreds of billions of galaxies, each with hundreds of billions of stars. There is no such thing as seven layers to the universe.  This myth of seven heavens was a common idea prevalent in the Middle East during the time when the Qur'an was first recited.
Your Guardian-Lord is Allah, Who created the heavens and the earth in six days, and is firmly established on the throne (of authority): He draweth the night as a veil o'er the day, each seeking the other in rapid succession: He created the sun, the moon, and the stars, (all) governed by laws under His command. Is it not His to create and to govern? Blessed be Allah, the Cherisher and Sustainer of the worlds! }}


=== Where does the sun rise?===
{{Quote|{{Quran|71|15}}|
See ye not how Allah has created the seven heavens one above another}}


The sun rises equally upon every human on earth on a daily basis, except in the poles. However, the Qur'an advocates the geocentric idea and flat earth concept in the verse below:
There are only 5 not 7 principal layers to the [[W:Atmosphere of Earth|Earth's atmosphere]], and likewise only 5 not 7 major layers to the Earth itself.


{{Quote|{{Quran|18|90}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|65|12}}|Allah is He Who created seven heavens, and of the earth the like of them; the decree continues to descend among them, that you may know that Allah has power over all things and that Allah indeed encompasses all things in (His) knowledge.}}
Until, when he came to the rising of the sun, he found it rising on a people for whom We had provided no covering protection against the sun. }}


===Earth created in six days===
===Earth Created in Six Days===
{{Main|Qur'an, Hadith and Scholars:Creation}}
{{Main|Qur'an, Hadith and Scholars:Creation}}


The earth took billions of years to form after Big bang.
The earth first formed around 9 billion years after the Big Bang. The Qur'an, however, repeats the prevailing middle eastern myth that the earth and universe were formed in six days. 


{{Quote|{{Quran|50|38}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|50|38}}|
We created the heavens and the earth and all between them in Six Days, nor did any sense of weariness touch Us}}
We created the heavens and the earth and all between them in Six Days, nor did any sense of weariness touch Us}}


===The earth existed before the universe===
Muslim apologists try and rescue the Qur'an by pointing to an alternative meaning of the Arabic word 'yawm' which typically means 'day' but can sometimes mean 'time period'. However the predominant meaning of the word is day and when a specific number is used, in this case six, the word almost always means a literal 24-hour day.  Again, nothing in the context of the verses, nor the Qur'an in general, suggests the universe or earth were formed over long time periods.  It would have been trivial for an all-knowing diety to simply state that the universe was first formed over [[w:Age of the universe|13.8 billion years ago]].  However, this information is conspicuously missing.
 
There was no planet during or before the Big Bang.


{{Quote|{{Quran|21|30}}|
===Earth Created before Stars===
Do not the Unbelievers see that the heavens and the earth were joined together (as one unit of creation), before we clove them asunder? We made from water every living thing. Will they not then believe? }}


The earth was created prior to the heaven.
The author of the Qur'an is also unaware that the [[w:Abundance of elements in Earth's crust|elements in the Earth's crust]] and core were first formed in stars.  Modern science has proposed that all the elements that make up the earth (Oxygen, Nitrogen, Carbon, Iron, etc.) was originally formed by [[w:Nucleosynthesis|nucleosynthesis]] in stars and then expelled into the universe when those stars [[w:Supernova|supernova]].  Yet the Qur'an describes the earth being formed before the stars and from "smoke" or material that pre-dates stars.  All rocky and gaseous planets in the universe were formed in a similar manner to the earth and the Qur'an singling out the earth only further highlights the authors ignorance of the history of the formation of celestial objects.


{{Quote|{{Quran|2|29}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|2|29}}|
He it is Who created for you all that is in the earth. Then turned He to the heaven, and fashioned it as seven heavens. And He is knower of all things. }}
He it is Who created for you all that is in the earth. Then turned He to the heaven, and fashioned it as seven heavens. And He is knower of all things. }}


===The Universe is contracting===
{{Quote|{{Quran|21|30}}|
 
Do not the Unbelievers see that the heavens and the earth were joined together (as one unit of creation), before we clove them asunder? We made from water every living thing. Will they not then believe? }}
Firstly, inanimate objects can't speak. Secondly, we have recently come to know the universe is expanding, not contracting.


{{Quote|{{Quran|41|11}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|41|11}}|
Moreover He comprehended in His design the sky, and it had been (as) smoke: He said to it and to the earth: "Come ye together, willingly or unwillingly." They said: "We do come (together), in willing obedience." }}
Moreover He comprehended in His design the sky, and it had been (as) smoke: He said to it and to the earth: "Come ye together, willingly or unwillingly." They said: "We do come (together), in willing obedience." }}


===The sun is a flat disk===
===Sun is a Flat Disk===


This verse suggests that the Sun is flat and can be folded up.
This verse suggests that the Sun is flat and can be folded up.  The Sun appears as a flat disc from the perspective of a person on earth, but the [[w:Sun|sun]] is in fact almost a perfect sphere.  The verse implies the authors ignorance of this fact.


{{Quote|{{Quran|81|1}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|81|1}}|
When the sun (with its spacious light) is folded up}}
When the sun (with its spacious light) is folded up}}


===Earth has invisible pillars keeping up the sky===
===Sky is a Tent/Dome===


This originated from the ancient Greek myth.
A common myth at the time of the Quran's composition was that the sky or heavens were held up with pillars.  Many Bedouin people living in Arabia imagined the sky as a large tent covering, similar to the tents they used.  The author repeats this myth by describing the sky as being "raised" above the earth.
 
{{Quote|{{Quran|2|22}}|
It is He Who made the Earth a couch for you, and the sky a dome.}} 


{{Quote|{{Quran|13|2}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|13|2}}|
Allah is He Who raised the heavens without any pillars that ye can see}}
Allah is He Who raised the heavens without any pillars that ye can see}}


This shows a lack of knowledge of astronomy. There is nothing in the heavens or sky to "raise", with or without pillars.
===Sky Guards the Earth===


===Sirius as a single star===
Asteroids and meteorites have penetrated the atmosphere and hit the earth throughout the course of history.  This includes the [[w:Chicxulub crater|massive meteorite]] that hit near the [[w:Yucatán Peninsula|Yucatán Peninsula]] 65 million years which killed off numerous species including most dinosaurs. There is no guardian, whatsoever, that prevents these types of events form happening.


The singular form used in this verse negates the fact that Sirius is actually a double star.
{{Quote|{{Quran|21|32}}|
And We have made the heavens as a canopy well guarded: yet do they turn away from the Signs which these things (point to)}}


{{Quote|{{Quran|53|49}}|
===Sky is Made of Solid Material===
And that He it is Who is the Lord of Sirius}}


===The sky is concrete and impenetrable===
{{Quote|{{Quran|50|6}}|What, have they not beheld heaven above them, how We have built it, and decked it out fair, '''and it has no cracks'''? And the earth -- We stretched it forth, and cast on it firm mountains, and We caused to grow therein of every joyous kind }}
 
The asteroid and meteorites penetrated the atmosphere to hit the earth throughout the course of history, there is no guardian whatsoever to prevent the incidents from happening.


{{Quote|{{Quran|21|32}}|
===Sky can Fall Down on People===
And We have made the heavens as a canopy well guarded: yet do they turn away from the Signs which these things (point to)}}


===There are no black holes===
The Qur'an author thought that the sky is like a ceiling that can fall on someone while the earth can swallow someone too.  This is obviously impossible as the earth's atmosphere is simply made of gas.


The evidence of Black Hole indicates certain degree of instability in the galaxy. Black holes absorb stars and even galaxies in regions of space where from which no entity, including light, can escape.
{{Quote|{{Quran|34|9}}|See they not what is before them and behind them, of the sky and the earth? If We wished, We could cause the earth to swallow them up, or cause a piece of the sky to fall upon them. Verily in this is a Sign for every devotee that turns to Allah (in repentance).}}


{{Quote|{{Quran|67|3}}|
===Ignorance of the North and South Poles===
Who created the seven heavens one above another; you see no incongruity in the creation of the Beneficent Allah; then look again, can you see any disorder? }}
 
===Allah is ignorant of the North and South Poles===
{{Main|The Ramadan Pole Paradox}}
{{Main|The Ramadan Pole Paradox}}


In polar regions, the longevity of day and night vary during summer and winter. Muhammad didn't know about this and he only repeated earlier geocentric ideas:  
In polar regions, the longevity of day and night vary during summer and winter. Muhammad didn't know about this and he only repeated earlier geocentric ideas.  


{{Quote|{{Quran|36|40}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|36|40}}|
It is not for the sun to overtake the moon, nor doth the night outstrip the day. They float each in an orbit. }}
It is not for the sun to overtake the moon, nor doth the night outstrip the day. They float each in an orbit. }}


===Thunder is an angel===
==Biology==
 
===Evolution===
 
The Qur'an presupposes a [[creation|creationist]] view of life on earth.  Its understanding of the history of human life is incompatible with the overwhelming scientific evidence that humans have evolved from prior life forms, over the course of millions of years, through natural selection [http://humanorigins.si.edu/evidence]. While some Muslims accept the theory of evolution, most reject it in favor of a creationist world view. [[Muslim Statistics - Science#Evolution|Opinion polls]] show that the majority of Muslims agree Islam and evolution are not compatible. 
 
====Human Creation from Clay====
{{Main|Creation of Humans from Clay}}
 
The Qur’an state that humans were created instantaneously from mud or clay.  There is no indication that the author is aware of the evolution of human life over millions of years nor our common ancestry with apes and primates.
 
{{Quote|{{Quran|15|26}}|
We created man from sounding clay, from mud molded into shape; }}


The Qur'an author was superstitious about thunder and regarded this natural phenomenon as an angel
{{Quote|{{Quran|2|117}}|
To Him is due the primal origin of the heavens and the earth: When He decreeth a matter, He saith to it: "Be," and it is. }}


{{Quote|{{Quran|13|13}}|
====First Humans: Adam and Eve====
And the thunder declares His glory with His praise, and the angels too for awe of Him; and He sends the thunderbolts and smites with them whom He pleases, yet they dispute concerning Allah, and He is mighty in prowess.}}
{{Main|Qur'an, Hadith and Scholars:Creation}}


====Tafsir Ibn Abbas====
The Qur’an and Hadith contains stories concerning the 'first humans' and how all people are descended from these two earliest ancestors.  It states that humans were created in a garden (paradise) and then brought to earth fully formed.  This view of the origins of human life is clearly contradicted by the numerous fossils of pre-homosapien species that lived on earth for millions of years before modern humans first evolved.[http://humanorigins.si.edu/evidence]


When we turn to the Muslim sources which explain this verse, it is rather apparent that the author of the Qur'an believed that thunder wasn’t simply an impersonal force, but an angel:
{{Quote|{{Quran|7|189}}|
"He it is Who created you from a single being, and of the same (kind) did He make his mate,}}
{{Quote|1=[http://altafsir.com/Tafasir.asp?tMadhNo=2&tTafsirNo=73&tSoraNo=13&tAyahNo=13&tDisplay=yes&UserProfile=0 Tafsir Ibn-Abbas]|2=(The thunder hymneth His praise) by His command; '''it is an angel'''; it is also said: it is the voice of the sky (and (so do) the angels) and also the angels hymn His praise (for awe of Him) the angels have awe towards Allah. (He launcheth the thunder bolts) i.e. fire (and smiteth with them whom He will) He destroys by means of fire whoever He will, referring here to Zayd Ibn Qays whom Allah destroyed by fire, along with his friend ‘Amir Ibn al-Tufayl who was killed as a result of being stabbed in his waist (while they dispute (in doubt) concerning Allah) while they dispute with Muhammad (pbuh) concerning the Religion of Allah, (and He is mighty in wrath) His chastisement is severe }}


===What causes the movement of shadows?===
{{Quote|{{Bukhari|4|55|548}}| Narrated Abu Huraira: Allah 's Apostle said, "Treat women nicely, for '''a women is created from a rib''', and the most curved portion of the rib is its upper portion, so, if you should try to straighten it, it will break, but if you leave it as it is, it will remain crooked. So treat women nicely." }}


The Qur'an says its the Sun's movement. This is false. The earth revolves around the sun and cause the movement of shadow.  
Some Muslim apologists will claim the view of two ancestral “parents” is consistent with recent scientific findings that show a common female and male ancestor of all modern humans.  They often exploit the confusion caused by scientists referring to these genetic ancestors as [[W:Mitochondrial Eve|Mitochondrial Eve]] and [[W:Y-chromosomal Adam|Y-chromosomal Adam]].  These two individuals bear little resemblance to the Quranic account as they are simply the last common male and female ancestors of everyone alive today, not of all humans in history.  The Qur'an clearly states Eve was created later than Adam, however [[W:Mitochondrial Eve|Mitochondrial Eve]] lived some 50,000 to 80,000 years earlier than [[W:Y-chromosomal Adam|Y-chromosomal Adam]].[http://biologos.org/blog/does-genetics-point-to-a-single-primal-couple]  Genetic evidence overwhelmingly indicates that humans diverged from earlier species as a population, not a single couple. [http://whyevolutionistrue.wordpress.com/2011/09/18/how-big-was-the-human-population-bottleneck-not-anything-close-to-2/].


{{Quote|{{Quran|25|45}}|
====Humans Created in Paradise and then Brought to Earth====
Hast thou not turned thy vision to thy Lord?- How He doth prolong the shadow! If He willed, He could make it stationary! then do We make the sun its guide; }}
{{Main|Qur'an, Hadith and Scholars:Creation}}


===The sky can fall down, the earth can swallow down===
The author of the Qur'an explicitly states that humans were first created outside of the earth and then only later sent down to live on the planet after being expelled from paradise. We have no evidence that humans ever lived in a terrestrial or extra-terrestrial paradise.  In fact, all evidence points to primitive humanoids living in caves for tens of thousands of years before settling into more permanent dwellings. [http://www.historyworld.net/wrldhis/plaintexthistories.asp?historyid=ab27]


The Qur'an author thought that the sky is like a ceiling that can fall on someone while the earth can swallow someone too.
{{Quote|{{Quran|2|36}}|
"Then did Satan make them slip from the (garden), and get them out of the state (of felicity) in which they had been. We said: 'Get ye down, all (ye people), with enmity between yourselves. On '''earth will be your dwelling-place''' and your means of livelihood - for a time.'  }}


{{Quote|{{Quran|34|9}}|See they not what is before them and behind them, of the sky and the earth? If We wished, We could cause the earth to swallow them up, or cause a piece of the sky to fall upon them. Verily in this is a Sign for every devotee that turns to Allah (in repentance).}}
{{Quote|{{Muslim|4|1856}}| Abu Huraira reported Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) as saying: The best day on which the sun has risen is''' Friday; on it Adam was created''', on it he was made to enter Paradise, on it he. was expelled from it.}}


===The Sky is made of rocky material===


{{Quote|{{Quran|50|6}}|What, have they not beheld heaven above them, how We have built it, and decked it out fair, '''and it has no cracks'''? And the earth -- We stretched it forth, and cast on it firm mountains, and We caused to grow therein of every joyous kind }}
===Embryology===
{{Main|Embryology in the Qur'an}}


==Biology==
The Qur'an and Hadith contain statements about bodily fluids and the stages of development of the human embryo. Many of these descriptions are vague and unscientific.  Most bare a striking resemblance to similar descriptions found in the [[w:Talmud|Jewish Talmud]] and the ideas of ancient Greeks, including their errors.


===Sperm comes from between the spine/backbone and ribs===
====Sperm Originates Between the Backbone and Ribs====
{{Main|Qur'an and Semen Production}}
{{Main|Qur'an and Semen Production}}


The Qur'an author was ignorant of the actual scientific facts except rehashing a prevalent scientific error of his contemporaries. Today we know sperm comes from the testicles, not from between the spine and ribs.
The Qur'an states, incorrectly, that semen originates from a spot between the backbone and ribs. Today we know sperm comes from the [[w:testicle|testicles]] which is not between the spine and ribs but in the pelvic region.


{{Quote|{{Quran-range|86|6|7}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran-range|86|6|7}}|
He is created from a drop emitted- Proceeding from between the backbone and the ribs: }}
He is created from a drop emitted- Proceeding from '''between the backbone and the ribs''' }}


===The embryo is initially formed out of semen===
====Embryo is Formed from Male and Female Fluids====
{{Main|Greek and Jewish Ideas about Reproduction in the Quran and Hadith}}
{{Main|Greek and Jewish Ideas about Reproduction in the Quran and Hadith}}


Verse 77:21 refers to the liquid that is placed in a firm lodging (qararin makeen) for a known extent. The verse is complimentary to verse 23:13, which refers to the semen (nutfah) that is placed in a firm lodging (qararin makeen). Verse 80:19 suggests that the embryo is created from the drop of seed (nutfah, which means a small quantity of liquid). This reflects the contemporary, but incorrect view that the embryo is initially formed out of semen stored in the womb. The same view appears in hadith. In fact, semen is the vehicle for the sperm cells, one of which fuses with a woman's ovum in her fallopian tube, and the resulting cell divides and travels back into the womb for implantation.  
The author of the Qur'an describes the formation of a human embryo from fluids emanating from both men and woman. This reflects the contemporary, but incorrect, view that the embryo is initially formed out of semen stored in the womb. In fact, semen is the vehicle for the sperm cells, one of which fuses with a woman's [[w:ovum|ovum]] in her [[w:fallopian tube|fallopian tube]], and the resulting cell divides and travels back into the womb for implantation.  


{{Quote|{{Quran-range|77|20|22}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran-range|77|20|22}}|
Did We not create you from a liquid disdained? And We placed it in a firm lodging For a known extent.}}
Did We not create you from a '''liquid disdained'''? And We placed it in a firm lodging For a known extent.}}


{{Quote|{{Quran-range|80|18|19}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran-range|80|18|19}}|
From what thing doth He create him? From a drop of seed. He createth him and proportioneth him}}
From what thing doth He create him? From a '''drop of seed'''. He createth him and proportioneth him}}
 
===Only Allah knows what gender the baby is===


Current technology, such as sonography, has enabled observation of baby's gender through ultrasonic imaging. There are also sex selection clinics that allow gender determination.
{{Quote|{{Quran-wi|76|2}}|Verily We created Man from '''a drop of mingled sperm''' [nutfatin amshajin], in order to try him: So We gave him (the gifts), of Hearing and Sight.}}


{{Quote|{{Quran|31|34}}|
====No Mention of Female Ovum====
Verily the knowledge of the Hour is with Allah (alone). It is He Who sends down rain, and He Who knows what is in the wombs. Nor does any one know what it is that he will earn on the morrow: Nor does any one know in what land he is to die. Verily with Allah is full knowledge and He is acquainted (with all things). }}


===Ovum contributed by female is not mentioned===
The Qur'an's author did not mention the role of the ovum in human reproduction and appears to have no knowledge of it.  This verse fails to mention the important role of the female egg, or ovum, plays in the reproduction of humankind.  It implies that reproduction is caused simply by the male semen.  The human ovum is very small, though visible to the human eye, and it's purpose wasn't understood in the 7th century. Again, we are left wondering why an all-knowing deity would omit such information.


The Qur'an author did not mention the role of the ovum due to his sole observation of the sperm during intercourse. This verse fails to mention the important role of the female egg in the reproduction of humankind.
{{Quote|{{Quran|25|45}}|He is created from a drop emitted}}


{{Quote|{{Quran|25|45}}|
====Humans Created from a Clot of Blood====
He is created from a drop emitted}}
{{Main|Embryology in Islamic Scripture}}


===Asexual creatures are absent in the Quran===
The Qur'an and Hadith depict that humans are formed from a clot of blood. There was never a stage in embryonic development where humans are formed into a clot of blood.  This description is likely influenced by an unscientific and primitive understanding of human reproduction based on observations from an early-term miscarriage and a woman's menstrual cycle.
{{Main|Qur'anic Claim of Everything Created in Pairs}}
 
Not every creature procreates or reproduces through male and female sexual relationship. The whiptail lizard in the U.S. Southwest, Mexico, and South America, which consists only of females who reproduce by parthenogenesis. Allah does not know anything about the biological process by which new individual organisms are produced. Today we know you can find an organism which creates a genetically-similar or identical copy of itself without a contribution of genetic material from another individual. There's also hermaphrodites.
 
{{Quote|{{Quran|51|49}}|
And of every thing We have created pairs: That ye may receive instruction. }}
 
===The blood-clot stage in human reproduction===
There was never a stage of blood clot during the formation of humans inside the womb.


{{Quote|{{Quran|96|2}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|96|2}}|
Created man, out of a (mere) clot of congealed blood: }}
Created man, out of a (mere) clot of congealed blood: }}


===Womb (belly) has 3 layers===
{{Quote|{{Bukhari|4|54|430}}|Narrated 'Abdullah bin Mus'ud:


The word [http://www.studyquran.org/LaneLexicon/Volume1/00000257.pdf butun] (بطن) means belly/abdomen/midriff, though some Muslim translators like to use the more specific word "womb". There are many more layers such as endometrium, myometrium, perimetrium, peritoneum, besides the cervix uteri, corpus uteri, abdomen (with walls), placenta (with layers). Perhaps this is the idea of 3 membranes around the fetus (chorion, allantois, and amnion) taught by the highly influencial Greek physician, Galen.
“Allah's Apostle, the true and truly inspired said, "(The matter of the Creation of) a human being is put together in the womb of the mother in forty days, and then he becomes a '''clot of thick blood for a similar period''', and then a piece of flesh for a similar period.”}}


{{Quote|{{Quran|39|6}}|
====Only Allah Knows the Gender of a Fetus====
He created you (all) from a single person: then created, of like nature, his mate; and he sent down for you eight head of cattle in pairs: He makes you, in the wombs of your mothers, in stages, one after another, in three veils of darkness. such is Allah, your Lord and Cherisher: to Him belongs (all) dominion. There is no god but He: then how are ye turned away (from your true Centre)? }}


===Bones are formed before flesh===
Current technology, such as [[w:Medical ultrasonography|sonograms]], has enabled doctors and expecting parents to learn the gender of a baby while still in the womb. There are also [[w:sex selection|sex selection]] techniques and clinics that allow a couple to predetermine the sex of their child.
{{Main|Embryology in the Qur'an}}


The Qur'an elaborates that the bones are formed and wrapped up with flesh. The first muscles are formed before the bones, and the rest are formed simultaneously though.
{{Quote|{{Quran|31|34}}|
Verily the knowledge of the Hour '''is with Allah (alone)'''. It is He Who sends down rain, and He Who knows what is in the wombs. Nor does any one know what it is that he will earn on the morrow: Nor does any one know in what land he is to die. Verily with Allah is full knowledge and He is acquainted (with all things). }}


{{Quote|{{Quran|23|14}}|
===All Organisms are Created in Pairs===
Then We made the sperm into a clot of congealed blood; then of that clot We made a (foetus) lump; then we made out of that lump bones then (not and) clothed the bones with flesh; then we developed out of it another creature. So blessed be Allah, the best to create! }}
{{Main|Qur'anic Claim of Everything Created in Pairs}}
 
===Milk comes from between excrement and blood===
 
The mammary glands where the milk is produced and stored are outside the body, while the excrement is in the intestines which is way inside the body. the two are nowhere near each other. Also, certain cattle milk needs processing, pasteurization, micro-filter, creaming and homogenization.


{{Quote|{{Quran|16|66}}|
Not every creature procreates or reproduces through male and female sexual relationship. The [[w:Desert grassland whiptail lizard|whiptail lizard]] in the U.S. Southwest, Mexico, and South America, is an all-females species which reproduces by [[w:parthenogenesis|parthenogenesis]]. [[w:virus|Viruses]] reproduce using a host's DNA and are neither female nor male. [[w:Bacteria|Bacteria]] reproduce by cell division. [[w:Fungus|Fungus]] can reproduce either sexually or asexually. Many species of plants also reproduce either asexually or through [[w:Pollination|pollination]].  
And verily in cattle (too) will ye find an instructive sign. From what is within their bodies between excretions and blood, We produce, for your drink, milk, pure and agreeable to those who drink it. }}
 
===Do humans think with their heart or with their brain?===
 
The author of the Qur'an assumed that humans think with their heart, while in reality we utilize the brain for that purpose.


{{Quote|{{Quran|51|49}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|51|49}}|
Behold! they fold up their hearts, that they may lie hid from Him! Ah even when they cover themselves with their garments, He knoweth what they conceal, and what they reveal: for He knoweth well the (inmost secrets) of the hearts. }}
And of '''every thing''' We have created pairs: That ye may receive instruction. }}


===Jinns created from fire===
===Womb has Three Layers===
{{Main|Greek and Jewish Ideas about Reproduction in the Quran and Hadith|l1=Greek and Jewish Ideas about Reproduction in the Qur'an and Hadith}}


In the past, people used to believe everything was made from 4 elements; Earth, wind, fire and water. However, fire is not a substance, but rather a reactionary chemical process.
The word [http://www.studyquran.org/LaneLexicon/Volume1/00000257.pdf butun] (بطن) means belly/abdomen/midriff, though some translators like to use the more specific word "womb". There are many more layers in the human body such as the endometrium, myometrium, perimetrium, peritoneum, besides the cervix uteri, corpus uteri, abdomen (with walls), and placenta (with layers). The idea of three membranes around the fetus (chorion, allantois, and amnion) was taught by the highly influential Greek physician, Galen.  It is likely that the Quranic author is simply repeating this erroneous idea.


{{Quote|{{Quran|55|15}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|39|6}}|
And he created Jinn from fire, free of smoke. }}
He created you (all) from a single person: then created, of like nature, his mate; and he sent down for you eight head of cattle in pairs: He makes you, in the wombs of your mothers, in stages, one after another, in '''three veils of darkness'''. such is Allah, your Lord and Cherisher: to Him belongs (all) dominion. There is no god but He: then how are ye turned away (from your true Centre)? }}


==Geology and Meteorology==
===Bones are Formed before Flesh===
{{Main|Embryology in the Qur'an}}


===Earth has seven atmospheres===
The Qur'an explains that the bones of a human embryo are formed first and then covered up with flesh. Modern scientific studies and research have shown that the bones and muscles of a developing fetus are formed simultaneously.
{{Main|Earth Made of Seven Layers}}


In reality, there are five principal layers in the atmosphere determining temperature. Within these layers, there are four layers determined by other properties.
{{Quote|{{Quran|23|14}}|
Then We made the sperm into a clot of congealed blood; then of that clot We made a (foetus) lump; then we made out of that lump bones then (not and) clothed the bones with flesh; then we developed out of it another creature. So blessed be Allah, the best to create! }}


{{Quote|{{Quran|41|12}}|
===Source and Purity of Milk===
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 guard. Such is the Decree of (Him) the Exalted in Might, Full of Knowledge. }}


===Earth is still===
The Qur'an states that milk is produced, in the body, somewhere between excretions and blood. The mammary glands, where milk is produced and stored, are nowhere near the intestines which is where excrement is stored. Many kinds of cattle and goat milk needs processing or pasteurization before they can safely be consumed; the milk is often infected with bacteria and other micro-organisms.  A significant number of  humans are [[Qur'an and Milk|lactose intolerant]] and unable to digest milk without experiencing abdominal bloating and cramps, flatulence, diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting. This makes the Qur'anic claim that milk is 'pure' and 'agreeable' to those who drink it dubious.


21<sup>st</sup> century astronomers tell us the Earth goes around the Sun. The Qur'an gives these views:
{{Quote|{{Quran|16|66}}|
And verily in cattle (too) will ye find an instructive sign. From what is within their bodies '''between excretions and blood''', We produce, for your drink, milk, '''pure and agreeable''' to those who drink it. }}


{{Quote|{{Quran|27|61}}|
==Geology and Meteorology==
Is not He (better than your gods) Who has made the earth as '''a fixed abode''', and has placed rivers in its midst, and has placed firm mountains therein, and has set a barrier between the two seas (of salt and sweet water). Is there any ilah (god) with Allah? Nay, but most of them know not.}}


====Tafsir Ibn Kathir====
===The Earth is Flat===
 
{{Quote|1=[http://www.qtafsir.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2232&Itemid=83 The Command to praise Allah and send Blessings on His Messengers]<BR>Tafsir Ibn Kathir|2=(Is not He Who has made the earth as a fixed abode,) meaning, '''stable and stationary, so that it does not move or convulse''', because if it were to do so, it would not be a good place for people to live on. But by His grace and mercy, He has made it smooth and calm, and it is not shaken or moved}}
 
===Different seas have an impenetrable barrier between them===
 
Distinct salinity levels in one sea eventually become homogenized with the other sea. However, the Qur'an failed to include this subtlety.
 
{{Quote|{{Quran|55|20}}|
Between them is a Barrier which they do not transgress }}
 
===The concept of a flat Earth===
{{Main|Flat Earth and the Qur'an}}
{{Main|Flat Earth and the Qur'an}}


====Earth is level====
====Facing Toward Mecca====


The Qur'an tells all mankind to face the direction of Mecca, but this would only be possible on a flat Earth. Since the Earth is spherical, it's not possible to bow down towards the direction of Mecca when you are in these places like Hawaii and LA which are on the opposite side of the earth.
The Qur'an tells all Muslims to face in the direction of Mecca when they pray.  However, this would only be possible on a flat Earth because it is not possible to bow down towards the direction of Mecca when you are on the opposite side of the earth.  The author here presupposes a small world, local to Arabia, that is flat.  Only in that world view can people everywhere face Mecca.  


{{Quote|{{Quran|2|149}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|2|149}}|
From whencesoever Thou startest forth, turn Thy face in the direction of the sacred Mosque; that is indeed the truth from the Lord. And Allah is not unmindful of what ye do.}}
From whencesoever Thou startest forth, turn Thy face in the direction of the sacred Mosque; that is indeed the truth from the Lord. And Allah is not unmindful of what ye do.}}


====Earth is flat====
====Earth is Spread Out and Flat====
 
The author of the Qur'an mentions to his audience that the earth is 'spread out' and layed flat like a carpet spread on the ground.


{{Quote|{{Quran|88|20}}|And at the Earth, how it is spread out?}}
{{Quote|{{Quran|88|20}}|And at the Earth, how it is spread out?}}


=====Tafsir al-Jalalayn=====
The Quranic commentator al-Jalalayn in his Tasfir agrees with this understanding of the verse saying that most scholars at his time agree that the earth is flat and not spherical.
 
Note that ''N J Dawood's'' translation renders this verse as "The earth, how it was made flat?", and Tafsir al-Jalalayn agrees with him.


{{Quote|Tafsir al-Jalalayn |And the earth, how it was laid out flat?, and thus infer from this the power of God, exalted be He, and His Oneness? The commencing with the [mention of] camels is because they are closer in contact with it [the earth] than any other [animal]. As for His words sutihat, 'laid out flat', this on a literal reading suggests '''that the earth is flat, which is the opinion of most of the scholars''' of the [revealed] Law, and not a sphere as astronomers (ahl al-hay'a) have it, even if this [latter] does not contradict any of the pillars of the Law.}}
{{Quote|Tafsir al-Jalalayn |And the earth, how it was laid out flat?, and thus infer from this the power of God, exalted be He, and His Oneness? The commencing with the [mention of] camels is because they are closer in contact with it [the earth] than any other [animal]. As for His words sutihat, 'laid out flat', this on a literal reading suggests '''that the earth is flat, which is the opinion of most of the scholars''' of the [revealed] Law, and '''not a sphere as astronomers (ahl al-hay'a) have it''', even if this [latter] does not contradict any of the pillars of the Law.}}


====Earth is like a couch====
====Earth is Like a Couch====


The earth was shaped like a couch while the sky shaped as dome, this substantiate the flat earth concept in Qur'an:
The earth is described as a couch, flat and laid out for people to lay upon.


{{Quote|{{Quran|2|22}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|2|22}}|
Who has made the earth your couch, and the heavens your dome; and sent down rain from the heavens; and brought forth therewith Fruits for your sustenance; then set not up rivals unto Allah when ye know (the truth). }}
Who has made the earth your couch, and the heavens your dome; and sent down rain from the heavens; and brought forth therewith Fruits for your sustenance; then set not up rivals unto Allah when ye know (the truth). }}


=====Tafsir Ibn Kathir=====
Ibn-Kathir in his Tafsir agrees with this interpretation that the earth is flat and comfortable like a bed.


{{Quote|Ibn-Kathir |who has made the earth as flat and comfortable as a bed and placed upon it mountains standing firm... (Tafsir Ibn Kathir (Part 1) }}
{{Quote|Ibn-Kathir |who has made the earth as flat and comfortable as a bed and placed upon it mountains standing firm... (Tafsir Ibn Kathir (Part 1) }}


====Earth is like a carpet====
====Earth is Like a Carpet====
 
The earth is described like a carpet, completely flat and spread out on the ground and not rolled up for storage.


{{Quote|{{Quran|20|53}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|20|53}}|
He Who has, made for you the earth like a carpet spread out; has enabled you to go about therein by roads (and channels); and has sent down water from the sky." With it have We produced diverse pairs of plants each separate from the others. }}
He Who has, made for you '''the earth like a carpet spread out'''; has enabled you to go about therein by roads (and channels); }}


{{Quote|{{Quran|43|10}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|43|10}}|
He Who has, made for you the earth like a carpet spread out; has enabled you to go about therein by roads (and channels); and has sent down water from the sky." With it have We produced diverse pairs of plants each separate from the others. }}
He Who has, made for you '''the earth like a carpet spread out'''; has enabled you to go about therein by roads (and channels); and has sent down water from the sky." With it have We produced diverse pairs of plants each separate from the others. }}
 
====Earth is a Wide Plain====
 
The author of the Qur'an sees the earth as a wide plain or expanse.  This is often likened to a flat bed, as some translators put it.  Again, the author seems unaware of the curvature of the earth or the fact that it is a sphere.
 
{{Quote|{{Quran|78|6}}|Have We not made the earth as a wide expanse, }}
 
====Earth is Level====


====Earth shaped as "wide"====
The Qur'an describes a time in the future when mountains will be removed leaving the Earth smooth and level.  This description assumes the earth is already flat and level with only the mountains giving it shape.  The author here appears to have no knowledge that the earth is curved and not level.
 
{{Quote|{{Quran|18|47}}|One Day We shall remove the mountains, and thou wilt see '''the earth as a level stretch''', and We shall gather them, all together, nor shall We leave out any one of them.}}
 
{{Quote|{{Quran|20|105}}|They ask thee concerning the Mountains: say "My Lord will uproot them and scatter them as dust; He will '''leave them as plains smooth and level'''; Nothing crooked or curved wilt thou see in their place}}
 
===Earth has Seven Atmospheric Layers===
{{Main|Earth Made of Seven Layers}}


{{Quote|{{Quran|78|6}}|
Some Muslim commentators and apologists believe the Qur'an describes the layers of the earth's atmosphere when it refers to the firmament and it's likeness on earth. However, scientists have determined that there are [[w:Atmosphere_of_Earth#Structure_of_the_atmosphere|five principal layers]] in the atmosphere and not seven.
Have We not made the earth as a wide expanse, }}


====Earth spread out====
{{Quote|{{Quran|65|12}}|
Allah is He Who Created '''seven''' firmaments and '''of the earth a similar number'''. Through the midst of them (all) descends His command: that ye may know that Allah has power over all things, and that Allah comprehends all things In (His) Knowledge.)" }}


{{Quote|{{Quran|15|19}}|
===The Earth does not Rotate===
And the earth have WE spread out, and set therein firm mountains and cause every thing to grow therein in proper proportion }}


=====Tafsir al-Jalalayn=====
The author of the Qur'an repeats a common view of the 7th century that the earth was a fixed and un-moving object with the stars, sun, and moon revolving around it.  The author appears to be unaware that the earth is rotating around its axis and moving through space around the sun.


{{Quote|1=[http://altafsir.com/Tafasir.asp?tMadhNo=0&tTafsirNo=74&tSoraNo=15&tAyahNo=19&tDisplay=yes&UserProfile=0 Quran 15:19]<BR>Tafsir al-Jalalayn|2=And the earth We have stretched it out, '''spread it flat''', and cast therein firm mountains, lest it should sway beneath its inhabitants, and caused to grow therein every kind of balanced thing, [every kind of thing] known and determined.}}
{{Quote|{{Quran|27|61}}|
Is not He (better than your gods) Who has made the earth as '''a fixed abode''', and has placed rivers in its midst, and has placed firm mountains therein, and has set a barrier between the two seas (of salt and sweet water). Is there any ilah (god) with Allah? Nay, but most of them know not.}}


====Earth is flatter without mountains====
{{Quote|1=[http://www.qtafsir.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2232&Itemid=83 The Command to praise Allah and send Blessings on His Messengers]<BR>Tafsir Ibn Kathir|2=(Is not He Who has made the earth as a fixed abode,) meaning, '''stable and stationary, so that it does not move or convulse''', because if it were to do so, it would not be a good place for people to live on. But by His grace and mercy, He has made it smooth and calm, and it is not shaken or moved}}


Earth without mountains.
===Permanent Barrier between Fresh and Salt Water===
{{Main|Meeting of Fresh and Salt Water in the Quran}}


{{Quote|{{Quran|18|47}}|One Day We shall remove the mountains, and thou wilt see the earth as a level stretch, and We shall gather them, all together, nor shall We leave out any one of them.}}
When a fresh water river flows into the sea or ocean, there is a transition region in between. This transition region is called an [[w:estuary|estuary]] where the fresh water remains temporarily separated from the salt water.  However, this barrier is not permanent and the different salinity levels between the two bodies of water eventually homogenize.  The Qur'an however erroneously says that the barrier between the two types of water is permanent.  


{{Quote|{{Quran|20|105}}|They ask thee concerning the Mountains: say "My Lord will uproot them and scatter them as dust;He will leave them as plains smooth and level; Nothing crooked or curved wilt thou see in their place}}
{{Quote|{{Quran|25|53}}| It is He Who has let free the two bodies of flowing water: One palatable and sweet, and the other salt and bitter; yet has He made a barrier between them, '''a partition that is forbidden to be passed'''. }}


===Mountains prevent earthquakes===
===Mountains Prevent Earthquakes===
{{Main|The Qur'an and Mountains}}
{{Main|The Qur'an and Mountains}}


Plate tectonic boundaries usually situated at the mountainous areas are highly unstable. The landmass of the earth has changed throughout history. But the Qur'an propagates the idea that mountains are crucial in stabilizing the earth.
Modern geology has discovered that large plates in the crust of the earth are responsible for the formation of mountains.  Called [[w:Plate tectonics|Plate tectonic]] these massive plates meet and the pressure between them pushes up the crust forming mountains but also causing earthquakes and faults. the Qur'an propagates the idea that mountains are crucial in stabilizing the earth when, in fact, the earth would be much more stable and have less earthquakes if mountains did not exit.


{{Quote|{{Quran|16|15}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|16|15}}|
And He has set up on the earth mountains standing firm, lest it should shake with you; and rivers and roads; that ye may guide yourselves}}
And He has set up on the earth mountains standing firm, lest it should shake with you; and rivers and roads; that ye may guide yourselves}}


===Allah dropped down/cast mountains===
===Mountains Cast into the Earth===


Mountains are usually formed and produced by the movement of lithospheric plates, either orogenic movement or epeirogenic movement. They are not thrown downward like pegs.
Mountains are usually formed through the movement of lithosphere plates. They were not thrown down into the earth.


{{Quote|{{Quran|16|15}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|16|15}}|
And He hath cast into the earth firm hills that it quake not with you, and streams and roads that ye may find a way }}
And He hath cast into the earth firm hills that it quake not with you, and streams and roads that ye may find a way }}


===Breasts contract with height===
===Chest Contracts with Altitude===
{{Main|Qur'an Describes Altitude Sickness}}
{{Main|Qur'an Describes Altitude Sickness}}


Line 496: Line 408:
{{Quote|{{Quran|6|125}}|Those whom Allah (in His plan) willeth to guide,- He openeth their breast to Islam; those whom He willeth to leave straying,- He maketh their breast close and constricted, as if they had to climb up to the skies: thus doth Allah (heap) the penalty on those who refuse to believe.}}
{{Quote|{{Quran|6|125}}|Those whom Allah (in His plan) willeth to guide,- He openeth their breast to Islam; those whom He willeth to leave straying,- He maketh their breast close and constricted, as if they had to climb up to the skies: thus doth Allah (heap) the penalty on those who refuse to believe.}}


===Earthquakes are for non-Muslims only===
===Earthquakes are a Punishment from God===
{{Main|Accidents and Natural Disasters in the Muslim World}}
{{Main|Accidents and Natural Disasters in the Muslim World}}


Some of the highest death tolls from natural disasters this millennium were in Muslim countries. In fact, natural disasters do not differentiate between Muslim or Non-Muslim nations.  
Some of the highest death tolls from natural disasters in the last decade were in Muslim countries. In fact, natural disasters do not differentiate between Muslim or Non-Muslim nations nor are they controlled by a divine being.  Earth quakes are extremely common along tectonic fault lines and are not a punishment for human behavior but the byproduct of natural forces.  The Qur'anic author perpetuates an unscientific understanding of his phenomena in there verses.


{{Quote|{{Quran|16|45}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|16|45}}|
Line 507: Line 419:
But they denied him, and the dreadful earthquake took them, and morning found them prostrate in their dwelling place. }}
But they denied him, and the dreadful earthquake took them, and morning found them prostrate in their dwelling place. }}


===Hurricanes/blizzards are punishments for Non-Muslims===
===Hurricanes and Blizzards are a Punishment from God===
{{Main|Accidents and Natural Disasters in the Muslim World}}


Two of the deadliest blizzards in history happened in Muslim countries. However, the Qur'an regards those natural disasters as violent punishment from God.
Two of the deadliest blizzards in history happened in Muslim countries. However, the Qur'an regards those natural disasters as violent punishment from God.  Weather patterns follow predictable patterns and are not controlled by a divine being.  


{{Quote|{{Quran|17|68}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|17|68}}|
Do ye then feel secure that He will not cause you to be swallowed up beneath the earth when ye are on land, or that He will not send against you a violent tornado (with showers of stones) so that ye shall find no one to carry out your affairs for you}}
Do ye then feel secure that He will not cause you to be swallowed up beneath the earth when ye are on land, or that He will not send against you a violent tornado (with showers of stones) so that ye shall find no one to carry out your affairs for you}}


===Pure rainwater ===
===Rainwater is Pure===


The Qur'an says rainwater is pure, even though it has an average PH of 5.6. In some industrial areas rainwater can also be toxic.
The Qur'an says rainwater is pure, though in some industrial areas rainwater can contain significant amounts of pollution and acidity.  Called [[w:Acid Rain|acid rain]] this type of rain causes harmful effects on plants, aquatic animals and buildings.


{{Quote|{{Quran|25|48}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|25|48}}|
And He it is Who sends the winds as good news before His mercy; and We send down pure water from the cloud, }}
And He it is Who sends the winds as good news before His mercy; and We send down pure water from the cloud, }}


===Rain from the sky grows plants===
===No Evaporation in Water Cycle===
{{Main|Responses_to_Zakir_Naik#Water_Cycle_in_the_Qur.27an}}


The Qur'an fails to mention evaporation or the photosynthesis process because the Arabs uttered what they observed on the desert in which the plant will grow immediately after raining.
Every verse about rain in the Qur'an implies that rain comes either directly from the sky or from God. However evaporation of water into the air is conspicuously never mentioned.
 
{{Quote|{{Quran|2|22}}|
Who has made the earth your couch, and the heavens your canopy; and sent down rain from the heavens; and brought forth therewith Fruits for your sustenance; then set not up rivals unto Allah when ye know (the truth). }}
 
===Allah didn't know about Water Cycle===
 
Every verse about rain in the Qur'an implies that rain comes either directly from the sky or from God. The evaporation of water into the air was conveniently not mentioned because the author of the Qur'an was unable to observe it.


{{Quote|{{Quran|43|11}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|43|11}}|
That sends down (from time to time) rain from the sky in due measure;- and We raise to life therewith a land that is dead; even so will ye be raised (from the dead)}}
That sends down (from time to time) rain from the sky in due measure;- and We raise to life therewith a land that is dead; even so will ye be raised (from the dead)}}


If Allah sends rain in "due measure" then how do you explain floods? Or perhaps, living in waterless deserts, the author of the Quran has been unaware of the concept of torrential and destructive rainfall.
===Hail Comes from Mountains in the Sky===
 
===Hail comes from mountains on the sky===


Hail forms in cumulonimbus clouds when supercooled water droplets freeze on contact with condensation nuclei. However, the Qur'an mistakenly ascribed the hail's formation to the imaginary mountains on the sky.
Hail forms in cumulonimbus clouds when super-cooled water droplets freeze. However, the Qur'an mistakenly ascribed the formation of hail's to invisible mountains in the sky.


{{Quote|{{Quran|24|43}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|24|43}}|
Seest thou not that Allah makes the clouds move gently, then joins them together, then makes them into a heap? - then wilt thou see rain issue forth from their midst. And He sends down from the sky mountain masses (of clouds) wherein is hail: He strikes therewith whom He pleases and He turns it away from whom He pleases, the vivid flash of His lightning well-nigh blinds the sight. }}
Seest thou not that Allah makes the clouds move gently, then joins them together, then makes them into a heap? - then wilt thou see rain issue forth from their midst. And '''He sends down from the sky mountain masses (of clouds) wherein is hail'''. He strikes therewith whom He pleases and He turns it away from whom He pleases, the vivid flash of His lightning well-nigh blinds the sight. }}


===There's an extreme east and west===
===Thunder is an Angel===


[[Dhul-Qarnayn]] went to the most extreme corner of the earth on one edge, and then moved to the other edge. This attested to the flat earth concept propagated by the Qur'an. Tafsir Qurtubi also accepts this interpretation and even claims only Zul Qarnayn has seen the "supporting pillar mountains".
The Quranic author was superstitious about thunder and imagined this natural phenomena as an angel.


{{Quote|{{Quran|18|89}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|13|13}}|
Then followed he (another) way, }}
And the thunder declares His glory with His praise, and the angels too for awe of Him; and He sends the thunderbolts and smites with them whom He pleases, yet they dispute concerning Allah, and He is mighty in prowess.}}
 
Muslim sources, which explain this verse clearly, indicate that the author of the Qur'an believed that thunder wasn't an impersonal natural phenomenon, but an angel:
{{Quote|1=[http://altafsir.com/Tafasir.asp?tMadhNo=2&tTafsirNo=73&tSoraNo=13&tAyahNo=13&tDisplay=yes&UserProfile=0 Tafsir Ibn-Abbas]|2=(The thunder hymneth His praise) by His command; '''it is an angel'''; it is also said: it is the voice of the sky (and (so do) the angels) and also the angels hymn His praise (for awe of Him) the angels have awe towards Allah. (He launcheth the thunder bolts) i.e. fire (and smiteth with them whom He will) He destroys by means of fire whoever He will, referring here to Zayd Ibn Qays whom Allah destroyed by fire, along with his friend ‘Amir Ibn al-Tufayl who was killed as a result of being stabbed in his waist (while they dispute (in doubt) concerning Allah) while they dispute with Muhammad (pbuh) concerning the Religion of Allah, (and He is mighty in wrath) His chastisement is severe }}


==Zoology==
==Zoology==


===Sinful animals===
===Bees Eat Fruit===


According to Allah, all animals will join us in the hereafter to be judged for their sins. So basically, in the hereafter, chicken, mankind, insects, and lions will stand side by side waiting our trial from the All Mighty lord Allah. This despite the fact that animals are not as self-aware as humans and work on instinct.
Bees feed on nectar and pollen. However, the Qur'an relates that bees consume fruit.


{{Quote|{{Quran|6|38}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|16|68-69}}|
There is not an animal (that lives) on the earth, nor a being that flies on its wings, but (forms part of) communities like you. Nothing have we omitted from the Book, and they (all) shall be gathered to their Lord in the end. }}
And thy Lord taught the Bee to build its cells in hills, on trees, and in (men's) habitations;  '''Then to eat of all the fruits (of the earth)''', and find with skill the spacious paths of its Lord: there issues from within their bodies a drink of varying colors, wherein is healing for men: verily in this is a Sign for those who give thought. }}


===Bees eat fruit===
===Ants Recognize Humans and Speak with Each Other===


Bees feed on nectar and pollen. However, Muhammad and his companions thought that bees consume fruit.
Ants typically communicate with each other using pheromone which are a chemical signal.  While scientists have also discovered that ants make some noises, nothing has ever indicated that the brains of ants could produce such complex communication as is depicted in the Quranic story of Solomon and the ants. However, the Qur'an tells us that not only does an ant warn his fellow ants of the approach of a large army of humans, but it recognizes one of the humans as Solomon. How an ant could even see that far or have known the identify of Solomon is never explained.  This account of a talking ant is clearly a fanciful legend and not scientific.


{{Quote|{{Quran|16|68-69}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|27|18}}|
And thy Lord taught the Bee to build its cells in hills, on trees, and in (men's) habitations;Then to eat of all the fruits (of the earth), and find with skill the spacious paths of its Lord: there issues from within their bodies a drink of varying colors, wherein is healing for men: verily in this is a Sign for those who give thought. }}
At length, when they came to a (lowly) valley of ants, one of the ants said: "O ye ants, get into your habitations, lest Solomon and his hosts crush you (under foot) without knowing it." }}


===Horses created for our transportation===
===Horses Created as Transportation===


It took thousands of years of domestication, evolution and cross-breeding. Horses were domesticated approximately 4,000 years ago in East Europe or Central Asia. Prior to this, horses were wild and need to be tamed, the Qur'an apparently neglect this important fact. Never mind the fact that we create our own transportation now with cars, planes etc.
It took thousands of years of domestication and cross-breeding before horses were domesticated approximately 4,000 years ago in East Europe and Central Asia. Prior to this, horses were wild animals though the Qur'an neglects to mention this important fact. Even today [[w:Feral horse|feral horses]] are descendants of once domesticated horses that aren't tamed or used for human transportation.  


{{Quote|{{Quran|16|8}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|16|8}}|
And (He has created) horses, mules, and donkeys, for you to ride and use for show; and He has created (other) things of which ye have no knowledge.}}
And (He has created) horses, mules, and donkeys, for you to ride and use for show; and He has created (other) things of which ye have no knowledge.}}


===Allah makes the bird fly===
===Bird Flight is a Miracle===


The aerodynamic shape of the bird's wing function as an essential factor so that the difference in the air pressure between the lower and upper part of its wing able to push the bird upward. The wings evolved over millions of years to acquire this feature. But the Qur'an described this ability in the simplest religious way.
Today, engineers and scientists are well aware of the aerodynamic properties of a bird's wing.  It functions by creating a difference in the air pressure between the lower and upper part of the wing and this creates lift that pushes the bird upward. The wings of birds evolved over millions of years to acquire this feature. The author of the Qur'an, however, is unaware of these scientific details and says that 'nothing' holds up the bird except the miraculous power of god.
    
    
{{Quote|{{Quran|16|79}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|16|79}}|
Do they not look at the birds, held poised in the midst of (the air and) the sky? Nothing holds them up but (the power of) Allah. Verily in this are signs for those who believe}}
Do they not look at the birds, held poised in the midst of (the air and) the sky? Nothing holds them up but (the power of) Allah. Verily in this are signs for those who believe}}


===Quranic science on classification of creatures===
===Classification of Creatures===


The Qur'an author observed creatures of the desert using their bellies (snake) or two legs (human) or four legs (lizard) to move. However, he failed to include creatures such as Millipedes that have a thousand legs.
The Qur'an observes that creatures of the desert move using their bellies (snake) or two legs (human) or four legs (cows, goats, etc.). However, the author fails to include insects such as Millipedes that have a thousand legs.


{{Quote|{{Quran|24|45}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|24|45}}|
And Allah has created '''every''' animal from water: of them there are some that creep on their bellies; some that walk on two legs; and some that walk on four. Allah creates what He wills for verily Allah has power over all things. }}
And Allah has created '''every''' animal from water: of them there are some that creep on their bellies; some that walk on two legs; and some that walk on four. Allah creates what He wills for verily Allah has power over all things. }}


===There are only eight types of cattle===
===Only Eight Types of Cattle===


In actual fact, there are more than a dozen kinds of cattle. The word "of cattle" in 39:6 is [http://www.studyquran.org/LaneLexicon/Volume8/00000289.pdf al-ana'ami], meaning pasturing (i.e. grazing) animals. The word [http://www.studyquran.org/LaneLexicon/Volume3/00000432.pdf azwajin] ("kinds" in the translation of 39:6 below) generally means mate or member of a pair. {{Quran|6|143-144}} clarifies that these refer to male and female pairs of sheep, goats, oxes and camels. This neglects other types of cattle from the regions outside of Arabia such as reindeer, which are important to people in northern latitudes.  
While the Qur'an states that there are eight kinds of cattle, In fact there are more than a dozen kinds of cattle. The word "cattle" in 39:6 is [http://www.studyquran.org/LaneLexicon/Volume8/00000289.pdf al-ana'ami], meaning pasturing (i.e. grazing) animals. The word [http://www.studyquran.org/LaneLexicon/Volume3/00000432.pdf azwajin] ("kinds" in the translation of 39:6 below) generally means mate or member of a pair. {{Quran|6|143-144}} clarifies that these refer to male and female pairs of sheep, goats, oxes and camels. This neglects other types of cattle from the regions outside of Arabia such as reindeer, which are important to people in northern latitudes.  


{{Quote|{{Quran|39|6}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|39|6}}|
He created you from one being, then from that (being) He made its mate; and He hath provided for you of cattle eight kinds. He created you in the wombs of your mothers, creation after creation, in a threefold gloom. Such is Allah, your Lord. His is the Sovereignty. There is no Allah save Him. How then are ye turned away}}
He created you from one being, then from that (being) He made its mate; and He hath provided for you of '''cattle eight kinds'''. He created you in the wombs of your mothers, creation after creation, in a threefold gloom. Such is Allah, your Lord. His is the Sovereignty. There is no Allah save Him. How then are ye turned away}}


===Allah is negligent about disabled creatures===
===Birth Defects and Imperfections===


Apparently Allah is unaware that he creates disabled animals and humans too.
The author of the Qur'an states that there are no flaws in anything.  The author fails to mention the numerous defects and imperfections in all species.


{{Quote|{{Quran|67|3}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|67|3}}|
Who hath created seven heavens in harmony. Thou (Muhammad) canst see no fault in the Beneficent One's creation; then look again: Canst thou see any flaw?}}
Who hath created seven heavens in harmony. Thou (Muhammad) canst see no fault in the Beneficent One's creation; then look again: Canst thou see any flaw?}}


===Allah left out poisonous sea creatures in his dietary advice===
===Poisonous Sea Life is Edible===


A lot of sea creatures are deadly for example the puffer fish, poison dart frog,
A number of sea creatures are deadly and fatal to humans if consumed.  This includes the [[w:puffer fish|puffer fish]], [[w:poison dart frog|poison dart frong]], marbled cone snail, [[w:blue ringed octopus|blue ringed octopus]] and [[w:stonefish|stonefish]]. The Qur'an, however, makes no prohibition against eating these types of animals even though it goes into lengthy detail forbidding the consumption of pigs, which are safe for humans to eat.  
marbled cone snail, blue ringed octopus and stonefish. But Allah says we can eat all types of seafood.


{{Quote|{{Quran|5|96}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|5|96}}|
Lawful to you is the pursuit of water-game and its use for food,- for the benefit of yourselves and those who travel; but forbidden is the pursuit of land-game;- as long as ye are in the sacred precincts or in pilgrim garb. And fear Allah, to Whom ye shall be gathered back. }}
Lawful to you is the pursuit of water-game and its use for food,- for the benefit of yourselves and those who travel; but forbidden is the pursuit of land-game;- as long as ye are in the sacred precincts or in pilgrim garb. And fear Allah, to Whom ye shall be gathered back. }}


===Birds fighting elephants===
===Birds Fight Elephants===


Birds and elephants have never been recorded fighting each other in nature.
Birds and elephants don't fight each other.  In fact, African elephants and birds have a symbiotic relationship where the birds eat bugs and lice off of elephants  [http://www.elephant-facts.co.uk/relationship-between-african-elephants-and-birds/]. The Qur'an here depicts a fanciful story of birds being directed to attack elephants and their riders during a battle.


{{Quote|{{Quran|105|1}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran-range|105|1|3}}|
Sees thou not how Allah dealt with the companions of the elephants? }}
Sees thou not how Allah dealt with the companions of the elephants? Did He not make their plan into misguidance? And he sent against them flights of birds. }}


{{Quote|{{Quran|105|3}}|
===Sinful Animals===
And he sent against them flights of birds. }}
 
According to the Qur'an, all animals will be judged for their sins. This despite the fact that animals are not as self-aware as humans and operate almost exclusively on instinct.
 
{{Quote|{{Quran|6|38}}|
There is not an animal (that lives) on the earth, nor a being that flies on its wings, but (forms part of) communities like you. Nothing have we omitted from the Book, and they (all) shall be gathered to their Lord in the end. }}


==History==
==History==


===Christians worship Mary===
===Wall of Iron between Two Mountains===
{{Main|Dhul-Qarnayn}}


Mary was never worshipped by Christians as part of the Trinity. On the other hand, the Qur'an reiterated Muhammad's misunderstanding on the concept of the Trinity:
The author of the Qur'an repeats a legendary Christian story of Alexander the Great as a great king who helps a tribe of people build a massive wall of iron between two mountains.  Even with satellites and near universal exploration of the world, no archaeologist has ever found even a trace of such a massive structure.
 
{{Quote|{{Quran-range|18|96|97}}|
"Bring me blocks of iron." At length, when he had '''filled up the space between the two steep mountain-sides''', He said, "Blow (with your bellows)" Then, when he had made it (red) as fire, he said: "Bring me, that I may pour over it, molten lead." Thus were they made powerless to scale it or to dig through it.
}}
 
===Christians Worship Mary as Part of the Trinity===
 
Christians have never worshiped Mary as part of the Trinity. The author of the Qur'an seems to be mistaken in his understanding of the doctrine of the Trinity and the theology of Christians throughout history. 


{{Quote|{{Quran|5|116}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|5|116}}|
And behold! Allah will say: "O Jesus the son of Mary! Didst thou say unto men, worship me and my mother as gods in derogation of Allah'?" He will say: "Glory to Thee! never could I say what I had no right (to say). Had I said such a thing, thou wouldst indeed have known it. Thou knowest what is in my heart, Thou I know not what is in Thine. For Thou knowest in full all that is hidden}}
And behold! Allah will say: "O Jesus the son of Mary! Didst thou say unto men, worship me and my mother as gods in derogation of Allah'?" He will say: "Glory to Thee! never could I say what I had no right (to say). Had I said such a thing, thou wouldst indeed have known it. Thou knowest what is in my heart, Thou I know not what is in Thine. For Thou knowest in full all that is hidden}}


===Noah's Ark for every species===
===Noah's Ark holds Every Species===


How was it possible to accommodate each species of male and female from all over the world inside an Ark?
The legend of Noah and the Ark states that two of each kind of animal was placed on an ark.  However, there are over a hundred thousand species of animals including penguins, polar bears, koala bears, and kangaroos that live spread across the entire planet and in different climates and requiring specialized diets.  There is no way such an event could have occurred.


{{Quote|{{Quran|11|40}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|11|40}}|
Line 643: Line 564:
This day shall We save thee in the body, that thou mayest be a sign to those who come after thee! but verily, many among mankind are heedless of Our Signs!" }}
This day shall We save thee in the body, that thou mayest be a sign to those who come after thee! but verily, many among mankind are heedless of Our Signs!" }}


===Jews say Ezra is the son of Allah===
===Jews call Ezra the Son of God===


Historically, there was not a single Jew who held such a view. The Jews were historically strict monotheists. But the Qur'an accused them of polytheism. Maybe the Sahaba couldn't think of anything wrong with Judaism so they made something up.
Historically, Judaism has been a strict form of monotheism. But the author of the Qur'an accuses Jews of polytheism by stating that they call Uzair (Ezra) the son of God in the same way that Christians see Jesus as the son of God. The author of the Qur'an seems to be unaware of the different theological implications of these two terms between Judaism and Christianity.


{{Quote|{{Quran|9|30}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|9|30}}|
The Jews call 'Uzair a son of Allah, and the Christians call Christ the son of Allah. That is a saying from their mouth; (in this) they but imitate what the unbelievers of old used to say. Allah's curse be on them: how they are deluded away from the Truth! }}
The Jews call 'Uzair a son of Allah, and the Christians call Christ the son of Allah. That is a saying from their mouth; (in this) they but imitate what the unbelievers of old used to say. Allah's curse be on them: how they are deluded away from the Truth! }}


===Destroyed cities are punishment from Allah===
===Supernatural Destruction of Cities===


The Qur'an author thought that outside the vicinity of Arabia there were cities and tribes destroyed by God. He acquired this hearsay from Arabian folklore as well as Jews and Christians sources. Those cities and tribes probably were destroyed by natural disasters or wars. For Muhammad, it's always God's way to deal with human.
The Qur'an author thought that outside the vicinity of Arabia there were cities and tribes destroyed by God. He acquired this information through hearsay from Arabian folklore as well as Jewish and Christian legends. Those cities and tribes probably were destroyed by natural disasters, famine, wars, migration or neglect.


{{Quote|{{Quran|40|82}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|40|82}}|
Do they not travel through the earth and see what was the End of those before them? They were more numerous than these and superior in strength and in the traces (they have left) in the land: Yet all that they accomplished was of no profit to them. }}
Do they not travel through the earth and see what was the End of those before them? They were more numerous than these and superior in strength and in the traces (they have left) in the land: Yet all that they accomplished was of no profit to them. }}


===Humans sleep for three-hundred years===
===Humans can Sleep for Three Hundred Years===


A human never sleeps for more than two days, unless he or she is in the state of comatose. However, the Qur'an incorporated this myth from Arabian and Christian folklore of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seven_Sleepers Seven Sleepers].
The oldest verified human life has been a little over 120 years.  Humans cannot live without food and water for more than a few days. However, the Qur'an incorporated a myth from 5th century Christian legends of the [[w:Seven Sleepers|Seven Sleepers of Ephesus] who sleep in a cave for over 300 years and then miraculously awaken in perfect health.  There is no historical evidence that this ever happened or could even been scientifically possible.


{{Quote|{{Quran|18|11}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|18|11}}|
Then We sealed up their hearing in the Cave for a number of years. }}
Then We sealed up their hearing in the Cave for a number of years. }}


===Humans living for a thousand years===
===Humans can Live for a Thousand Years===


There has never been recorded in actual history about human with such massive age. Moreover, science has never attested to this based on the fossil records. Nevertheless, the Qur'an is replete with this unsubstantiated myth.
The oldest verified human life has been a little over 120 years. Based on fossil records and testing on human remains, anthropologists have concluded that human life spans are increasing, not decreasing. Nevertheless, the Qur'an repeats the unsubstantiated myth that Noah lived for almost 1000, years.


{{Quote|{{Quran|29|14}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|29|14}}|
We (once) sent Noah to his people, and he tarried among them a thousand years less fifty: but the Deluge overwhelmed them while they (persisted in) sin. }}
We (once) sent Noah to his people, and he tarried among them '''a thousand years less fifty''': but the Deluge overwhelmed them while they (persisted in) sin. }}


===Muhammad sees an imaginary mosque?===
===Non-Existent Mosque in Jerusalem===


Muslims claim that Al-Aqsa mosque is mentioned in the Qur'an as the furthest mosque. Even though there was obviously no mosque in Jerusalem during Muhammad's time.
Muslims claim that Al-Aqsa mosque is mentioned in the Qur'an as the furthest mosque. Even though there was obviously no mosque in Jerusalem during Muhammad's time.
Line 680: Line 601:
==Sociology==
==Sociology==


===Allah was not aware of the Eskimos===
===Fasting and Prayer Requirements at the Poles===
{{Main|The Ramadan Pole Paradox}}
{{Main|The Ramadan Pole Paradox}}


Muhammad was apparently unfamiliar with polar regions in which there are six months without sunlight and six months perpetual night during winter and summer.  This injunction is arguably not observable by Eskimos. Could it be that God is ignorant about the night and day inequality phenomenon in the poles? The Qur'an claims that one should fast from sunrise till sunset.
Muhammad was apparently unfamiliar with polar regions in which there are six months without sunlight and six months perpetual night during winter and summer.  The Qur'an claims that Muslims should fast from sunrise till sunset, however this is arguably not observable by anyone living in the polar regions.  
   
   
{{Quote|{{Quran|2|187}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|2|187}}|
...then complete your fast Till the night appears;...}}
...then complete your fast Till the night appears;...}}


Same circumstances with the five daily prayers. How are Eskimos going to pray sunset prayers all year round? Allah forgot to mention it or Muhammad and the Sahaba didn't know? The universality of the Islamic message is debatable here.
A similar circumstances with the five daily prayers. Anyone living in the polar region would not be able to make a sunset or sunrise prayer all year round.


{{Quote|{{Quran|17|78}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|17|78}}|
Establish regular prayers - at the sun's decline till the darkness of the night, and the morning prayer and reading: for the prayer and reading in the morning carry their testimony.}}
Establish regular prayers - at the sun's decline till the darkness of the night, and the morning prayer and reading: for the prayer and reading in the morning carry their testimony.}}


===Muslims are protected in Mecca===
===People are Protected in Mecca===
{{Main|Hajj}}
{{Main|Hajj}}


False promise by Allah. Juhayman al-Otaybi and Abd-Allah ibn al-Zubayr, and Abu Tahir al-Janabi killed thousands of Muslim pilgrims in Mecca. Moreover, Yazid Bin Muawiya sent a battalion of army to attack Mecca and desecrated the Kaaba. The safety of Mecca is debatable here as there is no historical evidence pointing to that effect.
The Qur'an claims Allah has made Mecca and the Ka'aba a place of safety. However, historicaly it has been attacked and seen battles numerous times. Juhayman al-Otaybi, Abd-Allah ibn al-Zubayr, and Abu Tahir al-Janabi killed thousands of Muslim pilgrims in Mecca. Moreover, Yazid Bin Muawiya sent an army battalion to attack Mecca and desecrated the Ka'aba. The universal safety of people in Mecca has no historical evidence supporting it.


{{Quote|{{Quran|2|125}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|2|125}}|
Remember We made the House a place of assembly for men and a place of safety; and take ye the station of Abraham as a place of prayer; and We covenanted with Abraham and Isma'il, that they should sanctify My House for those who compass it round, or use it as a retreat, or bow, or prostrate themselves (therein in prayer). }}
Remember We made the House a place of assembly for men and '''a place of safety'''; and take ye the station of Abraham as a place of prayer; and We covenanted with Abraham and Isma'il, that they should sanctify My House for those who compass it round, or use it as a retreat, or bow, or prostrate themselves (therein in prayer). }}


{{Quote|{{Quran|5|97}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|5|97}}|
Allah made the Ka'ba, the Sacred House, an asylum of security for men, as also the Sacred Months, the animals for offerings, and the garlands that mark them: That ye may know that Allah hath knowledge of what is in the heavens and on earth and that Allah is well acquainted with all things. }}
Allah made '''the Ka'ba, the Sacred House, an asylum of security for men''', as also the Sacred Months, the animals for offerings, and the garlands that mark them: That ye may know that Allah hath knowledge of what is in the heavens and on earth and that Allah is well acquainted with all things. }}


There was no "Abaabil" bird to strike and halt them when they perpetrated bloodshed in Mecca.
===Non-Muslims are Deaf, Dumb, and Blind===
 
{{Quote|{{Quran|105|4}}|
Striking them with stones of baked clay. }}
 
===Non-Muslims are deaf, dumb, and blind===
{{Main|Golden Age}}
{{Main|Golden Age}}


Muslims call non-believers "deaf dumb and blind" but all the science and technology in the Muslim world is almost exclusively purchased from the non-Muslim world. Computers, TV's, space shuttles, helicopters, media players, nuclear bombs, cameras, satellites, birth control pills, vaccination for smallpox, telephones, radios, light bulbs, microchips, CDs, games consoles, refrigerators, microwaves, stainless steel, plastic, aluminium, x-rays, polio-vaccine, anti-biotics, heart-transplants etc. were all invented by non-Muslims.
The Qur'an calls non-believers "deaf dumb and blind".  However all the technology, medicine, and scientific advancements in the Muslim world are almost exclusively purchased from the non-Muslim countries. Computers, television, space travel, helicopters, media players, nuclear bombs, cameras, satellites, birth control pills, vaccinations, telephones, radios, light bulbs, microchips, games consoles, refrigerators, microwaves, plastic, aluminium, x-rays, antibiotics, heart-transplants, the internet etc., were all invented by non-Muslims.


{{Quote|{{Quran|2|18}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|2|18}}|
Deaf, dumb, and blind, they will not return (to the path)}}
Deaf, dumb, and blind, they will not return (to the path)}}


===All animals live in communities===
===All Animals Live in Communities===


Some animals or living beings such as the jaguar or leopard or spiders are well known for being solitary loners. They are certainly not in communities.
Some animals such as the jaguar, leopard, and panda are well known for being solitary creatures, rarely meeting in pairs and only to mate. They do not live in communities and routinely fight each other over territory.


{{Quote|{{Quran|6|38}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|6|38}}|
There is not an animal (that lives) on the earth, nor a being that flies on its wings, but (forms part of) communities like you. Nothing have we omitted from the Book, and they (all) shall be gathered to their Lord in the end. }}
There is not an animal (that lives) on the earth, nor a being that flies on its wings, '''but (forms part of) communities like you'''. Nothing have we omitted from the Book, and they (all) shall be gathered to their Lord in the end. }}


===Islam is only for people who speak Arabic===
===Requirement to Learn in Arabic===


The total number of languages in the world is between 5,000 and 10,000. However, It is incumbent upon Muslims to pray in Arabic, recite the Qur'an in Arabic and understand hadith and tafsir in Arabic.  
There are over 5,000 languages and dialects in the world, with less than 4% of the world's population being native Arabic speakers. However, It is incumbent upon Muslims to pray in Arabic, recite the Qur'an in Arabic, and understand commentaries and the traditions of Muhammed in Arabic. We are left wondering why an all-knowing being would not provide a more efficient way to send his message to all people on earth and why he does not account for the immense diversity of languages.


{{Quote|{{Quran|43|3}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|43|3}}|
We have made it a Qur'an in Arabic, that ye may be able to understand (and learn wisdom). }}
We have made it a Qur'an in Arabic, that ye may be able to understand (and learn wisdom). }}


===The heavens and earth rejected the "Trust"===
==Myths and Legendary Tales==
 
Heaven and Earth were afraid of the "Trust", in contradistinction with human. But mountains are just geological physical features without emotions.
 
{{Quote|{{Quran|33|72}}|
We did indeed offer the Trust to the Heavens and the Earth and the Mountains; but they refused to undertake it, being afraid thereof: but man undertook it;- He was indeed unjust and foolish}}
 
==Supernatural Tales==


===Humans supernaturally transform into apes and pigs===
===Humans Transformed into Apes===


Sabbath breakers are transformed into apes.
The Qur'an records a miraculous event where Sabbath breakers are transformed into apes. This account seems to be a mere legend and has no basis in scientific fact.


{{Quote|{{Quran|2|65}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|2|65}}|
And well ye knew those amongst you who transgressed in the matter of the Sabbath: We said to them: "Be ye apes, despised and rejected." }}
And well ye knew those amongst you who transgressed in the matter of the Sabbath: We said to them: "Be ye apes, despised and rejected." }}


===Mythical werewolves will roam the Earth===
===Tribe Trapped Behind a Wall===
{{Main|Dhul-Qarnayn}}


The modern satellite GPS system failed to trace the location of Ya'juj and Ma'juj. According to the Qur'an, these two beast tribes concealed themselves behind a metal wall.
The story of Dhul-Qarnayn says that a tribe is trapped behind a massive wall of Iron. According to the Qur'an, these two beast tribes concealed themselves behind this metal wall and will only be let free on the day of Judgement.  Obviously, no such wall has ever been found nor is there a tribe somewhere on earth trapped behind it.


{{Quote|{{Quran|21|96}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|21|96}}|
Until the Gog and Magog (people) are let through (their barrier), and they swiftly swarm from every hill. }}
Until the Gog and Magog (people) are let through (their barrier), and they swiftly swarm from every hill. }}


===Delicious buffet magically appears from the sky===
===Supernatural Food===
{{Main|Parallelism Between the Qur'an and Judeo-Christian Scriptures}}


No human ever experience food falling from the sky to feed their hunger.  
The Quran repeats a legendary story of Mary receiving food sent down from heaven.  There have never been any scientifically verified accounts of fully cooked food falling form the sky.


{{Quote|{{Quran|5|115}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|5|115}}|
Jesus, son of Mary, said: O Allah, Lord of us! Send down for us a table spread with food from heaven, that it may be a feast for us, for the first of us and for the last of us, and a sign from Thee. Give us sustenance, for Thou art the Best of Sustainers.}}
Jesus, son of Mary, said: O Allah, Lord of us! '''Send down for us a table spread with food from heaven, that it may be a feast for us''', for the first of us and for the last of us, and a sign from Thee. Give us sustenance, for Thou art the Best of Sustainers.}}


===A stick miraculously transforms into a serpent===
===A Stick Transforms into a Serpent===
{{Main|Parallelism Between the Qur'an and Judeo-Christian Scriptures}}
{{Main|Parallelism Between the Qur'an and Judeo-Christian Scriptures}}
The Quran repeats ancient Jewish myths about Moses turning his staff into a snake.


{{Quote|{{Quran|7|107}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|7|107}}|
Then (Moses) threw his rod, and behold! it was a serpent, plain (for all to see)! }}
Then (Moses) threw his rod, and behold! it was a serpent, plain (for all to see)! }}


===Solomon with his army of genies and birds===
===Solomon's Army of Genies and Birds===


Throughout history, kings and emperors had commanded huge and small amount of armies. None was ever recorded to possess armies that entirely consists of birds and genies. This is unique to the Qur'an.
Throughout history, kings and emperors had commanded huge and small amount of armies. None was ever recorded to possess armies that entirely consists of birds and genies. This story in the Quran draws on Jewish folklore.


{{Quote|{{Quran|27|16-17}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|27|16-17}}|
Line 784: Line 697:
I found (there) a woman ruling over them and provided with every requisite; and she has a magnificent throne.}}
I found (there) a woman ruling over them and provided with every requisite; and she has a magnificent throne.}}


===Jonah performs repentance prayer inside a fish===
===Jonah Performs Repentance inside a Fish===


How can a human lived inside a fish and perform prayer of repentance in the stomach? Prophet Jonah according to the Qur'an did just that.
A human could not live inside a fish and pray.  This story, found in the Quran, is again a repetition of ancient Jewish myths.


{{Quote|{{Quran|37|142}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|37|142}}|
Then the big Fish did swallow him, and he had done acts worthy of blame.Had it not been that he (repented and) glorified Allah,He would certainly have remained inside the Fish till the Day of Resurrection.But We cast him forth, on the naked shore in a state of sickness}}
Then the big Fish did swallow him, and he had done acts worthy of blame. Had it not been that he (repented and) glorified Allah,He would certainly have remained inside the Fish till the Day of Resurrection.But We cast him forth, on the naked shore in a state of sickness}}


===Humans and ants can communicate with each other===
===Muhammad Flies on a Winged Horse to Heaven===
{{Main|Buraq}}


In fact, ants communicate with each other using pheromone, a chemical signal. However, King Solomon was able to do so.
It took one week to travel from Mecca to the Farthest Mosque by camel. But Quran reveals that a magical winged horse, called the Buraq, traveled a similar distance in a matter of minutesNo such creature has ever been shown to be real and it seems to only exist in legend and mythology.


{{Quote|{{Quran|27|18}}|
So he smiled, amused at her speech; and he said: "O my Lord! so order me that I may be grateful for Thy favours, which thou hast bestowed on me and on my parents, and that I may work the righteousness that will please Thee: And admit me, by Thy Grace, to the ranks of Thy righteous Servants }}
===Muhammad flies on a winged horse called Buraq to heaven===
{{Main|Buraq}}
It took one week to travel from Mecca to the Farthest Mosque by camel. But the Buraq did that in a matter of minutes:
{{Quote|{{Quran|17|1}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|17|1}}|
Glory to (Allah) Who did take His servant for a Journey by night from the Sacred Mosque to the farthest Mosque, whose precincts We did bless,- in order that We might show him some of Our Signs: for He is the One Who heareth and seeth (all things). }}
Glory to (Allah) Who did take His servant for a Journey by night from the Sacred Mosque to the farthest Mosque, whose precincts We did bless,- in order that We might show him some of Our Signs: for He is the One Who heareth and seeth (all things). }}


===Body parts can rebel against the host===
===Body Parts Speak===


The limbs are controlled by the brain that conveys electrical signal through the nervous system. But the Qur'an believes that the limbs can talk and testify against the host:
The limbs and organs of a human are controlled by the brain that conveys electrical signal through the nervous system. But the Qur'an believes that the limbs can talk and testify against the person, even though they would have no voice, memory or mind of their own.
   
   
{{Quote|{{Quran|24|24}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|24|24}}|
On the Day when their tongues, their hands, and their feet will bear witness against them as to their actions. }}
On the Day when their tongues, their hands, and their feet will bear witness against them as to their actions. }}


===The ocean split into half===
===The Ocean Split in Half===


Moses and the Israelis crossed the split ocean.  
Moses and the Israelis crossed an ocean that was split into two halves.  


{{Quote|{{Quran|2|50}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|2|50}}|
And remember We divided the sea for you and saved you and drowned Pharaoh's people within your very sight. }}
And remember '''We divided the sea for you''' and saved you and drowned Pharaoh's people within your very sight. }}


===Solomon can control the wind===
===Solomon can Control the Wind===


King Solomon had the authority to manipulate the wind at his command.
King Solomon had the authority to manipulate the wind at his command and could fly anywhere he wanted.


{{Quote|{{Quran|38|36}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|38|36}}|
Then We subjected the wind to his power, to flow gently to his order, Whithersoever he willed  }}
Then We subjected the wind to his power, to flow gently to his order, Whithersoever he willed  }}
==== Ibn Kathir translation====


{{Quote|Ibn-Kathir | A flying carpet made from wood, on top of which he could carry everything in his kingdom including chairs, to wherever Solomon wants to go, whilst flocks of birds would fly over to give shade }}
{{Quote|Ibn-Kathir | A flying carpet made from wood, on top of which he could carry everything in his kingdom including chairs, to wherever Solomon wants to go, whilst flocks of birds would fly over to give shade }}


===A dead man testified against his killer===
===A Dead Man Testified against his Killer===


Scientifically, a man who has died for a few days can never be resurrected. But with scripture, the supernatural overrules the natural world.
Scientifically, a man who has died for a few days can never be resurrected.  


{{Quote|{{Quran|2|72}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|2|72}}|
And We said: Smite him with some of it. Thus Allah bringeth the dead to life and showeth you His portents so that ye may understand. }}
And We said: Smite him with some of it. Thus Allah bringeth the dead to life and showeth you His portents so that ye may understand. }}


===A monster speaks to humans===
===Animals Speak to Humans===


Beastly creatures advising human about the truth.
The Quran states that a Beast will come and tell humans the truth.


{{Quote|{{Quran|27|82}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|27|82}}|
And when the Word is fulfilled against them (the unjust), we shall produce from the '''earth a beast''' to (face) them: He will speak to them, for that mankind did not believe with assurance in Our Signs. }}
And when the Word is fulfilled against them (the unjust), we shall produce from the '''earth a beast''' to (face) them: '''He will speak to them''', for that mankind did not believe with assurance in Our Signs. }}
 
===Magical Hand in the Qur'an===
 
The hand that possesses shining power.
 
{{Quote|{{Quran|20|22}}|
Now draw thy hand close to thy side: it shall come forth white (and shining), without harm (or stain)― as another Sign}}


===Mountains and birds can sing human song===
===Mountains and Birds can Sing Songs===
 
Prophet David the singer and metal welder.


{{Quote|{{Quran|34|10}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|34|10}}|
Line 860: Line 756:
==Others==
==Others==


===Mathematical error in hereditary laws===
===Mathematical Error in Hereditary Laws===


{{Quote|{{Quran|4|11-12}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|4|11-12}}|
Line 873: Line 769:
* '''total''' = 27/24=1.125
* '''total''' = 27/24=1.125


The total does not equal to 1. This error can never be reconciled in any way. For more detail, please see the [http://www.answering-islam.org/Quran/Contra/i001.html Answering-Islam] website.
The total does not equal to 1. This error can never be reconciled in any way. [http://www.answering-islam.org/Quran/Contra/i001.html]


===People use the forehead to lie===
===People use the Forehead to Lie===
{{Main|Qur'an and the Lying Prefrontal Cerebrum}}
{{Main|Qur'an and the Lying Prefrontal Cerebrum}}


Brain wave technology shows us electrical activity happens in the entire brain when deceitful. On the contrary, Muslims ascribed scientific knowledge even to this verse of torture below.
Brain wave technology has shown that electrical activity happens in the entire brain when a person is being deceitful.  


{{Quote|{{Quran|96|15-16}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|96|15-16}}|
Let him beware! If he desist not, We will drag him by the forelock. A lying, sinful forehead.}}
Let him beware! If he desist not, We will drag him by the forelock. A lying, sinful forehead.}}


===Space flight is impossible ===
===Space Flight is Impossible ===


Space travel was pioneered by Non-Muslims fifty years ago. With current technology, mankind has already explored the end of the solar system. This verse however, implies that space travel is impossible without the consent of Allah. With dozens of atheist astronauts, you have to ask why an omniscient Deity made such an erroneous prophecy.
The first space ships and travel beyond the atmosphere of earth occurred over 60 years ago. With current technology, mankind has already explored the end of the solar system. The Qur'an however, implies that going beyond the earth is forbidden. .


{{Quote|{{Quran|55|33}}|
{{Quote|{{Quran|55|33}}|
O ye assembly of Jinns and men! If it be ye can pass beyond the zones of the heavens and the earth, pass ye! not without authority shall ye be able to pass! }}
O ye assembly of Jinns and men! If it be ye can pass beyond the zones of the heavens and the earth, pass ye! not without authority shall ye be able to pass! }}
{{Core Science}}


==See Also==
==See Also==

Revision as of 01:27, 17 November 2013

Muslims claim that the Qur’an contains a message from an all-powerful, all-knowing, infallible being. If this is true then it should not contain any errors, mistakes, or information that contradicts known facts about the universe. If even one error exists in the text of Islam's holy book then the claims of divine authorship and infallibility are not true. An objective evaluation of the Qur’an shows that it contains numerous scientific and historical errors and it reflects a pre-scientific, 7th century view of the natural world.

Some Muslim apologists will contest these numerous scientific errors in the Qur'an by appealing to metaphor, alternative meanings, or phenomenological interpretations of the text. Even if we suppose that alternative explanations were possible in every case, the wording and content of the Quranic verses often mimic the popular mythology and unscientific misconceptions of the time in which they were recorded. The author of the Qur’an makes no clear or unambiguous statements that differentiate his understanding of the natural world from the common folklore of the people living in the 7th century. If the Qur’an was delivered by an all-powerful, all-knowing being then he would have been able to foresee how such ambiguous and misleading statements would be understood by future generations and the doubts and confusions they would cause. This alone should be reason to reject any claims to its divine authorship.

Astronomy

Geocentricism

The Qur'an mentions numerous times that the Sun and the Moon travel in an orbit, but does not mention once that the Earth does too. This is consistent with a earth-centered view of the cosmos that places a motionless earth at the center of the universe and all "heavenly bodies" travel around the earth. This was the prevailing understanding of the universe prior to the 16th century when Copernicus helped explain and popularize a sun-centered view of the universe.

And the Sun runs his course for a period determined for him: that is the decree of (Him) the Exalted in Might, the All-Knowing.
It is not for the sun to overtake the moon, nor doth the night outstrip the day. They float in an orbit.

Some Muslim apologists try to explain away the Quranic description of the sun moving in an orbit as a reference to our sun orbiting the black hole at the center of the milky way galaxy. This is an Ad hoc hypothesis and nothing from the text implies that the sun is orbiting anything other than the earth. If the author had knowledge of the sun orbiting a black hole then it is conspicuous that he never mentions it explicitly nor in any way differentiates the sun's orbit from that of the moon.

In the Qur'an, the moon and the sun orbit the earth together. There is no distinction made between the moon, which actually revolves around the earth, and the sun which only appears to revolve around the earth when in fact the suns movement through the sky is a product of the rotation of the earth around its axis.

By the Sun and his (glorious) splendour; By the Moon as she follows him;
And He it is Who created the night and the day, and the sun and the moon. They float along in an orbit.
And maketh the sun and the moon, constant in their courses, to be of service unto you, and hath made of service unto you the night and the day.

The author of the Qur'an emphasis that the earth is fixed in place and motionless. He is clearly unaware that the earth is not only revolving around the sun, but also spinning on it's axis.

Verily! Allah grasps the heavens and the earth lest they move away from their places, and if they were to move away from their places, there is not one that could grasp them after Him. Truly, He is Ever Most Forbearing, Oft Forgiving.
It is God who made for you the earth a fixed place and heaven for an edifice; And He shaped you, and shaped you well, and provided you with the good things. That then is God, your Lord, so blessed be God, the Lord of all Being.

Setting and Rising Place of the Sun

The Qur'an assume a flat earth which has a fixed place where the sun sets and a fixed place where the sun rises again. Since the earth is a rotating sphere, the sun doesn't set in any particular place and you can never travel to "the spot" where the sun sets nor a place where it rises; the sun appears to set or rise on the horizon no mater where you are on the planet. In these verses, the author propagates a popular legend from the 6th century of a man named Dhul-Qarnayn who visits the places where the sun sets and rises; here he finds the sun going down into a muddy spring and later rising on a tribe with no coverings.

Till, when he reached the setting-place of the sun, he found it setting in a muddy spring, and found a people thereabout. We said: O Dhu'l-Qarneyn! Either punish or show them kindness.
Until, when he came to the rising of the sun, he found it rising on a people for whom We had provided no covering protection against the sun.

Some Muslim Apologists have come up with creative interpretations of these verse to say that Dhul-Qrnayn only traveled until reached a spot "at the time" when the sun set and not the "place" where the sun set. Unfortunately the context and Arabic words used in the verse point to a physical location. Again, we must ask why an all-knowing being would use such vague and misleading verses if he was simply trying to relate a time at which a person reached his destination.

Stars are Missiles Shot at Devils

The author of the Qur'an does not seem to know the difference between stars (giant balls of gas thousands of times larger than the earth) and meteorites which are small rocky masses of debris which brighten up after entering the earth's atmosphere. Many ancient people confused the two, as meteorites look like stars that are streaking across the sky; this is why there were often called shooting stars or falling stars. In the following verse, the Qur'an claims that Allah uses stars as missiles to ward away devils. This repeats a common Arab myth at the time the Qur'an was first recited.

And verily We have beautified the world's heaven with stars/lamps, and We have made them missiles for the devils, and for them We have prepared the doom of flame.
Except such as snatch away something by stealth, and they are pursued by a flaming fire, of piercing brightness.

Moon is Further from the Earth than the Stars

The Qur'an claims that the moon is located in the middle of the universe and stars are in the nearest/lowest part of the universe. The nearest star to our solar system is 4.24 light years (4x1013km) away and over 100 million times further away then the moon. Clearly the Quranic author has no idea that the vast majority of stars in the night sky are billions upon billions of light-years away.

See ye not how Allah has created the seven heavens one above another,

'And made the moon a light in their midst, and made the sun as a (Glorious) Lamp
Surely We have adorned the nearest heaven with an adornment, the stars

Moon Emits Light

The moon does not emit it's own light but simply reflects light coming from the Sun. The Arabic word for reflected (in`ikaas) does not appear in this Quranic verse that says the Moon is a "light". It instead uses the word "Noor" which is used to denote an entity that emits light

And hath made the moon a light therein, and made the sun a lamp?

The word "Noor" is also used in these verse to show that Allah is the "light" of the universe. Clearly the author is not implying that Allah reflects light from another source but is the source of the light.

Allah is the Light of the heavens and the earth. The Parable of His Light is as if there were a Niche and within it a Lamp: the Lamp enclosed in Glass: the glass as it were a brilliant star: Lit from a blessed Tree, an Olive, neither of the east nor of the west, whose oil is well-nigh luminous, though fire scarce touched it: Light upon Light! Allah doth guide whom He will to His Light: Allah doth set forth Parables for men: and Allah doth know all things.

Moon was Split in Two

The Qur'an and Hadith claim that the moon was miraculously split into two pieces and then, presumably, put back together again. There is absolutely no scientific evidence whatsoever that the moon has ever been split into two. Since the moon is visible to half the planet at any given time, we should expect to see numerous accounts from different parts of the world attesting to this event if it actually happened. The Romans, Greeks, Egyptians, Persians, Chinese and Indians had avid astronomers who should have seen this event and recorded it in their histories. The absence of historical record from other civilizations, contemporary to Muhammad, is a strong indication that this event never happened.

The hour drew nigh and the moon did rend asunder.
Narrated Anas: "That the Meccan people requested Allah's Apostle to show them a miracle, and so he showed them the splitting of the moon."

Seven Planets in the Universe

This verse claims there are seven planets. However, according to astronomers, there are eight ordinary planets and five dwarf planets, which leaves the grand total at thirteen in our solar system. Modern astronomy also has found hundreds of other planets in other solar systems and Cosmologists estimate that hundred of billions of stars and planets exist in the universe. The author of the Qur'an singling out such a small number of celestial objects only reaffirms his ignorance of the makeup of the universe.

Allah is He Who created seven Firmaments and of the earth a similar number. Through the midst of them (all) descends His Command: that ye may know that Allah has power over all things, and that Allah comprehends, all things in (His) Knowledge.

The paternal cousin of Muhammad and conspicuous expert on tafsir (interpretation of the Qur'an) writes that Allah means that all 7 planets are flat planets.

Allah is He who created 7 heavens one above the other like a dome, and of the Earths, the like thereof, 7 planets but they are flat
Tafsir Ibn-Abass

Seven Heavens

The universe consists of hundreds of billions of galaxies, each with hundreds of billions of stars. There is no such thing as seven layers to the universe. This myth of seven heavens was a common idea prevalent in the Middle East during the time when the Qur'an was first recited.

See ye not how Allah has created the seven heavens one above another

There are only 5 not 7 principal layers to the Earth's atmosphere, and likewise only 5 not 7 major layers to the Earth itself.

Allah is He Who created seven heavens, and of the earth the like of them; the decree continues to descend among them, that you may know that Allah has power over all things and that Allah indeed encompasses all things in (His) knowledge.

Earth Created in Six Days

The earth first formed around 9 billion years after the Big Bang. The Qur'an, however, repeats the prevailing middle eastern myth that the earth and universe were formed in six days.

We created the heavens and the earth and all between them in Six Days, nor did any sense of weariness touch Us

Muslim apologists try and rescue the Qur'an by pointing to an alternative meaning of the Arabic word 'yawm' which typically means 'day' but can sometimes mean 'time period'. However the predominant meaning of the word is day and when a specific number is used, in this case six, the word almost always means a literal 24-hour day. Again, nothing in the context of the verses, nor the Qur'an in general, suggests the universe or earth were formed over long time periods. It would have been trivial for an all-knowing diety to simply state that the universe was first formed over 13.8 billion years ago. However, this information is conspicuously missing.

Earth Created before Stars

The author of the Qur'an is also unaware that the elements in the Earth's crust and core were first formed in stars. Modern science has proposed that all the elements that make up the earth (Oxygen, Nitrogen, Carbon, Iron, etc.) was originally formed by nucleosynthesis in stars and then expelled into the universe when those stars supernova. Yet the Qur'an describes the earth being formed before the stars and from "smoke" or material that pre-dates stars. All rocky and gaseous planets in the universe were formed in a similar manner to the earth and the Qur'an singling out the earth only further highlights the authors ignorance of the history of the formation of celestial objects.

He it is Who created for you all that is in the earth. Then turned He to the heaven, and fashioned it as seven heavens. And He is knower of all things.
Do not the Unbelievers see that the heavens and the earth were joined together (as one unit of creation), before we clove them asunder? We made from water every living thing. Will they not then believe?
Moreover He comprehended in His design the sky, and it had been (as) smoke: He said to it and to the earth: "Come ye together, willingly or unwillingly." They said: "We do come (together), in willing obedience."

Sun is a Flat Disk

This verse suggests that the Sun is flat and can be folded up. The Sun appears as a flat disc from the perspective of a person on earth, but the sun is in fact almost a perfect sphere. The verse implies the authors ignorance of this fact.

When the sun (with its spacious light) is folded up

Sky is a Tent/Dome

A common myth at the time of the Quran's composition was that the sky or heavens were held up with pillars. Many Bedouin people living in Arabia imagined the sky as a large tent covering, similar to the tents they used. The author repeats this myth by describing the sky as being "raised" above the earth.

It is He Who made the Earth a couch for you, and the sky a dome.
Allah is He Who raised the heavens without any pillars that ye can see

Sky Guards the Earth

Asteroids and meteorites have penetrated the atmosphere and hit the earth throughout the course of history. This includes the massive meteorite that hit near the Yucatán Peninsula 65 million years which killed off numerous species including most dinosaurs. There is no guardian, whatsoever, that prevents these types of events form happening.

And We have made the heavens as a canopy well guarded: yet do they turn away from the Signs which these things (point to)

Sky is Made of Solid Material

What, have they not beheld heaven above them, how We have built it, and decked it out fair, and it has no cracks? And the earth -- We stretched it forth, and cast on it firm mountains, and We caused to grow therein of every joyous kind

Sky can Fall Down on People

The Qur'an author thought that the sky is like a ceiling that can fall on someone while the earth can swallow someone too. This is obviously impossible as the earth's atmosphere is simply made of gas.

See they not what is before them and behind them, of the sky and the earth? If We wished, We could cause the earth to swallow them up, or cause a piece of the sky to fall upon them. Verily in this is a Sign for every devotee that turns to Allah (in repentance).

Ignorance of the North and South Poles

In polar regions, the longevity of day and night vary during summer and winter. Muhammad didn't know about this and he only repeated earlier geocentric ideas.

It is not for the sun to overtake the moon, nor doth the night outstrip the day. They float each in an orbit.

Biology

Evolution

The Qur'an presupposes a creationist view of life on earth. Its understanding of the history of human life is incompatible with the overwhelming scientific evidence that humans have evolved from prior life forms, over the course of millions of years, through natural selection [1]. While some Muslims accept the theory of evolution, most reject it in favor of a creationist world view. Opinion polls show that the majority of Muslims agree Islam and evolution are not compatible.

Human Creation from Clay

The Qur’an state that humans were created instantaneously from mud or clay. There is no indication that the author is aware of the evolution of human life over millions of years nor our common ancestry with apes and primates.

We created man from sounding clay, from mud molded into shape;
To Him is due the primal origin of the heavens and the earth: When He decreeth a matter, He saith to it: "Be," and it is.

First Humans: Adam and Eve

The Qur’an and Hadith contains stories concerning the 'first humans' and how all people are descended from these two earliest ancestors. It states that humans were created in a garden (paradise) and then brought to earth fully formed. This view of the origins of human life is clearly contradicted by the numerous fossils of pre-homosapien species that lived on earth for millions of years before modern humans first evolved.[2]

"He it is Who created you from a single being, and of the same (kind) did He make his mate,"
Narrated Abu Huraira: Allah 's Apostle said, "Treat women nicely, for a women is created from a rib, and the most curved portion of the rib is its upper portion, so, if you should try to straighten it, it will break, but if you leave it as it is, it will remain crooked. So treat women nicely."

Some Muslim apologists will claim the view of two ancestral “parents” is consistent with recent scientific findings that show a common female and male ancestor of all modern humans. They often exploit the confusion caused by scientists referring to these genetic ancestors as Mitochondrial Eve and Y-chromosomal Adam. These two individuals bear little resemblance to the Quranic account as they are simply the last common male and female ancestors of everyone alive today, not of all humans in history. The Qur'an clearly states Eve was created later than Adam, however Mitochondrial Eve lived some 50,000 to 80,000 years earlier than Y-chromosomal Adam.[3] Genetic evidence overwhelmingly indicates that humans diverged from earlier species as a population, not a single couple. [4].

Humans Created in Paradise and then Brought to Earth

The author of the Qur'an explicitly states that humans were first created outside of the earth and then only later sent down to live on the planet after being expelled from paradise. We have no evidence that humans ever lived in a terrestrial or extra-terrestrial paradise. In fact, all evidence points to primitive humanoids living in caves for tens of thousands of years before settling into more permanent dwellings. [5]

"Then did Satan make them slip from the (garden), and get them out of the state (of felicity) in which they had been. We said: 'Get ye down, all (ye people), with enmity between yourselves. On earth will be your dwelling-place and your means of livelihood - for a time.'
Abu Huraira reported Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) as saying: The best day on which the sun has risen is Friday; on it Adam was created, on it he was made to enter Paradise, on it he. was expelled from it.


Embryology

The Qur'an and Hadith contain statements about bodily fluids and the stages of development of the human embryo. Many of these descriptions are vague and unscientific. Most bare a striking resemblance to similar descriptions found in the Jewish Talmud and the ideas of ancient Greeks, including their errors.

Sperm Originates Between the Backbone and Ribs

The Qur'an states, incorrectly, that semen originates from a spot between the backbone and ribs. Today we know sperm comes from the testicles which is not between the spine and ribs but in the pelvic region.

He is created from a drop emitted- Proceeding from between the backbone and the ribs

Embryo is Formed from Male and Female Fluids

The author of the Qur'an describes the formation of a human embryo from fluids emanating from both men and woman. This reflects the contemporary, but incorrect, view that the embryo is initially formed out of semen stored in the womb. In fact, semen is the vehicle for the sperm cells, one of which fuses with a woman's ovum in her fallopian tube, and the resulting cell divides and travels back into the womb for implantation.

Did We not create you from a liquid disdained? And We placed it in a firm lodging For a known extent.
From what thing doth He create him? From a drop of seed. He createth him and proportioneth him
Verily We created Man from a drop of mingled sperm [nutfatin amshajin], in order to try him: So We gave him (the gifts), of Hearing and Sight.

No Mention of Female Ovum

The Qur'an's author did not mention the role of the ovum in human reproduction and appears to have no knowledge of it. This verse fails to mention the important role of the female egg, or ovum, plays in the reproduction of humankind. It implies that reproduction is caused simply by the male semen. The human ovum is very small, though visible to the human eye, and it's purpose wasn't understood in the 7th century. Again, we are left wondering why an all-knowing deity would omit such information.

He is created from a drop emitted

Humans Created from a Clot of Blood

The Qur'an and Hadith depict that humans are formed from a clot of blood. There was never a stage in embryonic development where humans are formed into a clot of blood. This description is likely influenced by an unscientific and primitive understanding of human reproduction based on observations from an early-term miscarriage and a woman's menstrual cycle.

Created man, out of a (mere) clot of congealed blood:
Narrated 'Abdullah bin Mus'ud: “Allah's Apostle, the true and truly inspired said, "(The matter of the Creation of) a human being is put together in the womb of the mother in forty days, and then he becomes a clot of thick blood for a similar period, and then a piece of flesh for a similar period.”

Only Allah Knows the Gender of a Fetus

Current technology, such as sonograms, has enabled doctors and expecting parents to learn the gender of a baby while still in the womb. There are also sex selection techniques and clinics that allow a couple to predetermine the sex of their child.

Verily the knowledge of the Hour is with Allah (alone). It is He Who sends down rain, and He Who knows what is in the wombs. Nor does any one know what it is that he will earn on the morrow: Nor does any one know in what land he is to die. Verily with Allah is full knowledge and He is acquainted (with all things).

All Organisms are Created in Pairs

Not every creature procreates or reproduces through male and female sexual relationship. The whiptail lizard in the U.S. Southwest, Mexico, and South America, is an all-females species which reproduces by parthenogenesis. Viruses reproduce using a host's DNA and are neither female nor male. Bacteria reproduce by cell division. Fungus can reproduce either sexually or asexually. Many species of plants also reproduce either asexually or through pollination.

And of every thing We have created pairs: That ye may receive instruction.

Womb has Three Layers

The word butun (بطن) means belly/abdomen/midriff, though some translators like to use the more specific word "womb". There are many more layers in the human body such as the endometrium, myometrium, perimetrium, peritoneum, besides the cervix uteri, corpus uteri, abdomen (with walls), and placenta (with layers). The idea of three membranes around the fetus (chorion, allantois, and amnion) was taught by the highly influential Greek physician, Galen. It is likely that the Quranic author is simply repeating this erroneous idea.

He created you (all) from a single person: then created, of like nature, his mate; and he sent down for you eight head of cattle in pairs: He makes you, in the wombs of your mothers, in stages, one after another, in three veils of darkness. such is Allah, your Lord and Cherisher: to Him belongs (all) dominion. There is no god but He: then how are ye turned away (from your true Centre)?

Bones are Formed before Flesh

The Qur'an explains that the bones of a human embryo are formed first and then covered up with flesh. Modern scientific studies and research have shown that the bones and muscles of a developing fetus are formed simultaneously.

Then We made the sperm into a clot of congealed blood; then of that clot We made a (foetus) lump; then we made out of that lump bones then (not and) clothed the bones with flesh; then we developed out of it another creature. So blessed be Allah, the best to create!

Source and Purity of Milk

The Qur'an states that milk is produced, in the body, somewhere between excretions and blood. The mammary glands, where milk is produced and stored, are nowhere near the intestines which is where excrement is stored. Many kinds of cattle and goat milk needs processing or pasteurization before they can safely be consumed; the milk is often infected with bacteria and other micro-organisms. A significant number of humans are lactose intolerant and unable to digest milk without experiencing abdominal bloating and cramps, flatulence, diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting. This makes the Qur'anic claim that milk is 'pure' and 'agreeable' to those who drink it dubious.

And verily in cattle (too) will ye find an instructive sign. From what is within their bodies between excretions and blood, We produce, for your drink, milk, pure and agreeable to those who drink it.

Geology and Meteorology

The Earth is Flat

Facing Toward Mecca

The Qur'an tells all Muslims to face in the direction of Mecca when they pray. However, this would only be possible on a flat Earth because it is not possible to bow down towards the direction of Mecca when you are on the opposite side of the earth. The author here presupposes a small world, local to Arabia, that is flat. Only in that world view can people everywhere face Mecca.

From whencesoever Thou startest forth, turn Thy face in the direction of the sacred Mosque; that is indeed the truth from the Lord. And Allah is not unmindful of what ye do.

Earth is Spread Out and Flat

The author of the Qur'an mentions to his audience that the earth is 'spread out' and layed flat like a carpet spread on the ground.

And at the Earth, how it is spread out?

The Quranic commentator al-Jalalayn in his Tasfir agrees with this understanding of the verse saying that most scholars at his time agree that the earth is flat and not spherical.

And the earth, how it was laid out flat?, and thus infer from this the power of God, exalted be He, and His Oneness? The commencing with the [mention of] camels is because they are closer in contact with it [the earth] than any other [animal]. As for His words sutihat, 'laid out flat', this on a literal reading suggests that the earth is flat, which is the opinion of most of the scholars of the [revealed] Law, and not a sphere as astronomers (ahl al-hay'a) have it, even if this [latter] does not contradict any of the pillars of the Law.
Tafsir al-Jalalayn

Earth is Like a Couch

The earth is described as a couch, flat and laid out for people to lay upon.

Who has made the earth your couch, and the heavens your dome; and sent down rain from the heavens; and brought forth therewith Fruits for your sustenance; then set not up rivals unto Allah when ye know (the truth).

Ibn-Kathir in his Tafsir agrees with this interpretation that the earth is flat and comfortable like a bed.

who has made the earth as flat and comfortable as a bed and placed upon it mountains standing firm... (Tafsir Ibn Kathir (Part 1)
Ibn-Kathir

Earth is Like a Carpet

The earth is described like a carpet, completely flat and spread out on the ground and not rolled up for storage.

He Who has, made for you the earth like a carpet spread out; has enabled you to go about therein by roads (and channels);
He Who has, made for you the earth like a carpet spread out; has enabled you to go about therein by roads (and channels); and has sent down water from the sky." With it have We produced diverse pairs of plants each separate from the others.

Earth is a Wide Plain

The author of the Qur'an sees the earth as a wide plain or expanse. This is often likened to a flat bed, as some translators put it. Again, the author seems unaware of the curvature of the earth or the fact that it is a sphere.

Have We not made the earth as a wide expanse,

Earth is Level

The Qur'an describes a time in the future when mountains will be removed leaving the Earth smooth and level. This description assumes the earth is already flat and level with only the mountains giving it shape. The author here appears to have no knowledge that the earth is curved and not level.

One Day We shall remove the mountains, and thou wilt see the earth as a level stretch, and We shall gather them, all together, nor shall We leave out any one of them.
They ask thee concerning the Mountains: say "My Lord will uproot them and scatter them as dust; He will leave them as plains smooth and level; Nothing crooked or curved wilt thou see in their place

Earth has Seven Atmospheric Layers

Some Muslim commentators and apologists believe the Qur'an describes the layers of the earth's atmosphere when it refers to the firmament and it's likeness on earth. However, scientists have determined that there are five principal layers in the atmosphere and not seven.

Allah is He Who Created seven firmaments and of the earth a similar number. Through the midst of them (all) descends His command: that ye may know that Allah has power over all things, and that Allah comprehends all things In (His) Knowledge.)"

The Earth does not Rotate

The author of the Qur'an repeats a common view of the 7th century that the earth was a fixed and un-moving object with the stars, sun, and moon revolving around it. The author appears to be unaware that the earth is rotating around its axis and moving through space around the sun.

Is not He (better than your gods) Who has made the earth as a fixed abode, and has placed rivers in its midst, and has placed firm mountains therein, and has set a barrier between the two seas (of salt and sweet water). Is there any ilah (god) with Allah? Nay, but most of them know not.
(Is not He Who has made the earth as a fixed abode,) meaning, stable and stationary, so that it does not move or convulse, because if it were to do so, it would not be a good place for people to live on. But by His grace and mercy, He has made it smooth and calm, and it is not shaken or moved

Permanent Barrier between Fresh and Salt Water

When a fresh water river flows into the sea or ocean, there is a transition region in between. This transition region is called an estuary where the fresh water remains temporarily separated from the salt water. However, this barrier is not permanent and the different salinity levels between the two bodies of water eventually homogenize. The Qur'an however erroneously says that the barrier between the two types of water is permanent.

It is He Who has let free the two bodies of flowing water: One palatable and sweet, and the other salt and bitter; yet has He made a barrier between them, a partition that is forbidden to be passed.

Mountains Prevent Earthquakes

Modern geology has discovered that large plates in the crust of the earth are responsible for the formation of mountains. Called Plate tectonic these massive plates meet and the pressure between them pushes up the crust forming mountains but also causing earthquakes and faults. the Qur'an propagates the idea that mountains are crucial in stabilizing the earth when, in fact, the earth would be much more stable and have less earthquakes if mountains did not exit.

And He has set up on the earth mountains standing firm, lest it should shake with you; and rivers and roads; that ye may guide yourselves

Mountains Cast into the Earth

Mountains are usually formed through the movement of lithosphere plates. They were not thrown down into the earth.

And He hath cast into the earth firm hills that it quake not with you, and streams and roads that ye may find a way

Chest Contracts with Altitude

This verse says that your chest cavity gets smaller with higher altitude when in reality the opposite is true.

Those whom Allah (in His plan) willeth to guide,- He openeth their breast to Islam; those whom He willeth to leave straying,- He maketh their breast close and constricted, as if they had to climb up to the skies: thus doth Allah (heap) the penalty on those who refuse to believe.

Earthquakes are a Punishment from God

Some of the highest death tolls from natural disasters in the last decade were in Muslim countries. In fact, natural disasters do not differentiate between Muslim or Non-Muslim nations nor are they controlled by a divine being. Earth quakes are extremely common along tectonic fault lines and are not a punishment for human behavior but the byproduct of natural forces. The Qur'anic author perpetuates an unscientific understanding of his phenomena in there verses.

Do then those who devise evil (plots) feel secure that Allah will not cause the earth to swallow them up, or that the Wrath will not seize them from directions they little perceive?
But they denied him, and the dreadful earthquake took them, and morning found them prostrate in their dwelling place.

Hurricanes and Blizzards are a Punishment from God

Two of the deadliest blizzards in history happened in Muslim countries. However, the Qur'an regards those natural disasters as violent punishment from God. Weather patterns follow predictable patterns and are not controlled by a divine being.

Do ye then feel secure that He will not cause you to be swallowed up beneath the earth when ye are on land, or that He will not send against you a violent tornado (with showers of stones) so that ye shall find no one to carry out your affairs for you

Rainwater is Pure

The Qur'an says rainwater is pure, though in some industrial areas rainwater can contain significant amounts of pollution and acidity. Called acid rain this type of rain causes harmful effects on plants, aquatic animals and buildings.

And He it is Who sends the winds as good news before His mercy; and We send down pure water from the cloud,

No Evaporation in Water Cycle

Every verse about rain in the Qur'an implies that rain comes either directly from the sky or from God. However evaporation of water into the air is conspicuously never mentioned.

That sends down (from time to time) rain from the sky in due measure;- and We raise to life therewith a land that is dead; even so will ye be raised (from the dead)

Hail Comes from Mountains in the Sky

Hail forms in cumulonimbus clouds when super-cooled water droplets freeze. However, the Qur'an mistakenly ascribed the formation of hail's to invisible mountains in the sky.

Seest thou not that Allah makes the clouds move gently, then joins them together, then makes them into a heap? - then wilt thou see rain issue forth from their midst. And He sends down from the sky mountain masses (of clouds) wherein is hail. He strikes therewith whom He pleases and He turns it away from whom He pleases, the vivid flash of His lightning well-nigh blinds the sight.

Thunder is an Angel

The Quranic author was superstitious about thunder and imagined this natural phenomena as an angel.

And the thunder declares His glory with His praise, and the angels too for awe of Him; and He sends the thunderbolts and smites with them whom He pleases, yet they dispute concerning Allah, and He is mighty in prowess.

Muslim sources, which explain this verse clearly, indicate that the author of the Qur'an believed that thunder wasn't an impersonal natural phenomenon, but an angel:

(The thunder hymneth His praise) by His command; it is an angel; it is also said: it is the voice of the sky (and (so do) the angels) and also the angels hymn His praise (for awe of Him) the angels have awe towards Allah. (He launcheth the thunder bolts) i.e. fire (and smiteth with them whom He will) He destroys by means of fire whoever He will, referring here to Zayd Ibn Qays whom Allah destroyed by fire, along with his friend ‘Amir Ibn al-Tufayl who was killed as a result of being stabbed in his waist (while they dispute (in doubt) concerning Allah) while they dispute with Muhammad (pbuh) concerning the Religion of Allah, (and He is mighty in wrath) His chastisement is severe

Zoology

Bees Eat Fruit

Bees feed on nectar and pollen. However, the Qur'an relates that bees consume fruit.

And thy Lord taught the Bee to build its cells in hills, on trees, and in (men's) habitations; Then to eat of all the fruits (of the earth), and find with skill the spacious paths of its Lord: there issues from within their bodies a drink of varying colors, wherein is healing for men: verily in this is a Sign for those who give thought.

Ants Recognize Humans and Speak with Each Other

Ants typically communicate with each other using pheromone which are a chemical signal. While scientists have also discovered that ants make some noises, nothing has ever indicated that the brains of ants could produce such complex communication as is depicted in the Quranic story of Solomon and the ants. However, the Qur'an tells us that not only does an ant warn his fellow ants of the approach of a large army of humans, but it recognizes one of the humans as Solomon. How an ant could even see that far or have known the identify of Solomon is never explained. This account of a talking ant is clearly a fanciful legend and not scientific.

At length, when they came to a (lowly) valley of ants, one of the ants said: "O ye ants, get into your habitations, lest Solomon and his hosts crush you (under foot) without knowing it."

Horses Created as Transportation

It took thousands of years of domestication and cross-breeding before horses were domesticated approximately 4,000 years ago in East Europe and Central Asia. Prior to this, horses were wild animals though the Qur'an neglects to mention this important fact. Even today feral horses are descendants of once domesticated horses that aren't tamed or used for human transportation.

And (He has created) horses, mules, and donkeys, for you to ride and use for show; and He has created (other) things of which ye have no knowledge.

Bird Flight is a Miracle

Today, engineers and scientists are well aware of the aerodynamic properties of a bird's wing. It functions by creating a difference in the air pressure between the lower and upper part of the wing and this creates lift that pushes the bird upward. The wings of birds evolved over millions of years to acquire this feature. The author of the Qur'an, however, is unaware of these scientific details and says that 'nothing' holds up the bird except the miraculous power of god.

Do they not look at the birds, held poised in the midst of (the air and) the sky? Nothing holds them up but (the power of) Allah. Verily in this are signs for those who believe

Classification of Creatures

The Qur'an observes that creatures of the desert move using their bellies (snake) or two legs (human) or four legs (cows, goats, etc.). However, the author fails to include insects such as Millipedes that have a thousand legs.

And Allah has created every animal from water: of them there are some that creep on their bellies; some that walk on two legs; and some that walk on four. Allah creates what He wills for verily Allah has power over all things.

Only Eight Types of Cattle

While the Qur'an states that there are eight kinds of cattle, In fact there are more than a dozen kinds of cattle. The word "cattle" in 39:6 is al-ana'ami, meaning pasturing (i.e. grazing) animals. The word azwajin ("kinds" in the translation of 39:6 below) generally means mate or member of a pair. Quran 6:143-144 clarifies that these refer to male and female pairs of sheep, goats, oxes and camels. This neglects other types of cattle from the regions outside of Arabia such as reindeer, which are important to people in northern latitudes.

He created you from one being, then from that (being) He made its mate; and He hath provided for you of cattle eight kinds. He created you in the wombs of your mothers, creation after creation, in a threefold gloom. Such is Allah, your Lord. His is the Sovereignty. There is no Allah save Him. How then are ye turned away

Birth Defects and Imperfections

The author of the Qur'an states that there are no flaws in anything. The author fails to mention the numerous defects and imperfections in all species.

Who hath created seven heavens in harmony. Thou (Muhammad) canst see no fault in the Beneficent One's creation; then look again: Canst thou see any flaw?

Poisonous Sea Life is Edible

A number of sea creatures are deadly and fatal to humans if consumed. This includes the puffer fish, poison dart frong, marbled cone snail, blue ringed octopus and stonefish. The Qur'an, however, makes no prohibition against eating these types of animals even though it goes into lengthy detail forbidding the consumption of pigs, which are safe for humans to eat.

Lawful to you is the pursuit of water-game and its use for food,- for the benefit of yourselves and those who travel; but forbidden is the pursuit of land-game;- as long as ye are in the sacred precincts or in pilgrim garb. And fear Allah, to Whom ye shall be gathered back.

Birds Fight Elephants

Birds and elephants don't fight each other. In fact, African elephants and birds have a symbiotic relationship where the birds eat bugs and lice off of elephants [6]. The Qur'an here depicts a fanciful story of birds being directed to attack elephants and their riders during a battle.

Sees thou not how Allah dealt with the companions of the elephants? Did He not make their plan into misguidance? And he sent against them flights of birds.

Sinful Animals

According to the Qur'an, all animals will be judged for their sins. This despite the fact that animals are not as self-aware as humans and operate almost exclusively on instinct.

There is not an animal (that lives) on the earth, nor a being that flies on its wings, but (forms part of) communities like you. Nothing have we omitted from the Book, and they (all) shall be gathered to their Lord in the end.

History

Wall of Iron between Two Mountains

The author of the Qur'an repeats a legendary Christian story of Alexander the Great as a great king who helps a tribe of people build a massive wall of iron between two mountains. Even with satellites and near universal exploration of the world, no archaeologist has ever found even a trace of such a massive structure.

"Bring me blocks of iron." At length, when he had filled up the space between the two steep mountain-sides, He said, "Blow (with your bellows)" Then, when he had made it (red) as fire, he said: "Bring me, that I may pour over it, molten lead." Thus were they made powerless to scale it or to dig through it.


Christians Worship Mary as Part of the Trinity

Christians have never worshiped Mary as part of the Trinity. The author of the Qur'an seems to be mistaken in his understanding of the doctrine of the Trinity and the theology of Christians throughout history.

And behold! Allah will say: "O Jesus the son of Mary! Didst thou say unto men, worship me and my mother as gods in derogation of Allah'?" He will say: "Glory to Thee! never could I say what I had no right (to say). Had I said such a thing, thou wouldst indeed have known it. Thou knowest what is in my heart, Thou I know not what is in Thine. For Thou knowest in full all that is hidden

Noah's Ark holds Every Species

The legend of Noah and the Ark states that two of each kind of animal was placed on an ark. However, there are over a hundred thousand species of animals including penguins, polar bears, koala bears, and kangaroos that live spread across the entire planet and in different climates and requiring specialized diets. There is no way such an event could have occurred.

At length, behold! there came Our command, and the fountains of the earth gushed forth! We said: "Embark therein, of each kind two, male and female, and your family - except those against whom the word has already gone forth,- and the Believers." but only a few believed with him.

Pharaoh or Pharaohs

Geographically, the Coptic land of Egypt was adjacent to Arabia. Thus, most Arabs were aware of the preservation method applied by the ancient Egyptian to their Pharaohs. There were so many Pharaohs ranging from numerous dynasties, many of them were preserved intact. But the Qur'an merely narrated one Pharaoh that was preserved.

This day shall We save thee in the body, that thou mayest be a sign to those who come after thee! but verily, many among mankind are heedless of Our Signs!"

Jews call Ezra the Son of God

Historically, Judaism has been a strict form of monotheism. But the author of the Qur'an accuses Jews of polytheism by stating that they call Uzair (Ezra) the son of God in the same way that Christians see Jesus as the son of God. The author of the Qur'an seems to be unaware of the different theological implications of these two terms between Judaism and Christianity.

The Jews call 'Uzair a son of Allah, and the Christians call Christ the son of Allah. That is a saying from their mouth; (in this) they but imitate what the unbelievers of old used to say. Allah's curse be on them: how they are deluded away from the Truth!

Supernatural Destruction of Cities

The Qur'an author thought that outside the vicinity of Arabia there were cities and tribes destroyed by God. He acquired this information through hearsay from Arabian folklore as well as Jewish and Christian legends. Those cities and tribes probably were destroyed by natural disasters, famine, wars, migration or neglect.

Do they not travel through the earth and see what was the End of those before them? They were more numerous than these and superior in strength and in the traces (they have left) in the land: Yet all that they accomplished was of no profit to them.

Humans can Sleep for Three Hundred Years

The oldest verified human life has been a little over 120 years. Humans cannot live without food and water for more than a few days. However, the Qur'an incorporated a myth from 5th century Christian legends of the [[w:Seven Sleepers|Seven Sleepers of Ephesus] who sleep in a cave for over 300 years and then miraculously awaken in perfect health. There is no historical evidence that this ever happened or could even been scientifically possible.

Then We sealed up their hearing in the Cave for a number of years.

Humans can Live for a Thousand Years

The oldest verified human life has been a little over 120 years. Based on fossil records and testing on human remains, anthropologists have concluded that human life spans are increasing, not decreasing. Nevertheless, the Qur'an repeats the unsubstantiated myth that Noah lived for almost 1000, years.

We (once) sent Noah to his people, and he tarried among them a thousand years less fifty: but the Deluge overwhelmed them while they (persisted in) sin.

Non-Existent Mosque in Jerusalem

Muslims claim that Al-Aqsa mosque is mentioned in the Qur'an as the furthest mosque. Even though there was obviously no mosque in Jerusalem during Muhammad's time.

Glory to (Allah) Who did take His servant for a Journey by night from the Sacred Mosque to the farthest Mosque, whose precincts We did bless,- in order that We might show him some of Our Signs: for He is the One Who heareth and seeth (all things).

Sociology

Fasting and Prayer Requirements at the Poles

Muhammad was apparently unfamiliar with polar regions in which there are six months without sunlight and six months perpetual night during winter and summer. The Qur'an claims that Muslims should fast from sunrise till sunset, however this is arguably not observable by anyone living in the polar regions.

...then complete your fast Till the night appears;...

A similar circumstances with the five daily prayers. Anyone living in the polar region would not be able to make a sunset or sunrise prayer all year round.

Establish regular prayers - at the sun's decline till the darkness of the night, and the morning prayer and reading: for the prayer and reading in the morning carry their testimony.

People are Protected in Mecca

The Qur'an claims Allah has made Mecca and the Ka'aba a place of safety. However, historicaly it has been attacked and seen battles numerous times. Juhayman al-Otaybi, Abd-Allah ibn al-Zubayr, and Abu Tahir al-Janabi killed thousands of Muslim pilgrims in Mecca. Moreover, Yazid Bin Muawiya sent an army battalion to attack Mecca and desecrated the Ka'aba. The universal safety of people in Mecca has no historical evidence supporting it.

Remember We made the House a place of assembly for men and a place of safety; and take ye the station of Abraham as a place of prayer; and We covenanted with Abraham and Isma'il, that they should sanctify My House for those who compass it round, or use it as a retreat, or bow, or prostrate themselves (therein in prayer).
Allah made the Ka'ba, the Sacred House, an asylum of security for men, as also the Sacred Months, the animals for offerings, and the garlands that mark them: That ye may know that Allah hath knowledge of what is in the heavens and on earth and that Allah is well acquainted with all things.

Non-Muslims are Deaf, Dumb, and Blind

The Qur'an calls non-believers "deaf dumb and blind". However all the technology, medicine, and scientific advancements in the Muslim world are almost exclusively purchased from the non-Muslim countries. Computers, television, space travel, helicopters, media players, nuclear bombs, cameras, satellites, birth control pills, vaccinations, telephones, radios, light bulbs, microchips, games consoles, refrigerators, microwaves, plastic, aluminium, x-rays, antibiotics, heart-transplants, the internet etc., were all invented by non-Muslims.

Deaf, dumb, and blind, they will not return (to the path)

All Animals Live in Communities

Some animals such as the jaguar, leopard, and panda are well known for being solitary creatures, rarely meeting in pairs and only to mate. They do not live in communities and routinely fight each other over territory.

There is not an animal (that lives) on the earth, nor a being that flies on its wings, but (forms part of) communities like you. Nothing have we omitted from the Book, and they (all) shall be gathered to their Lord in the end.

Requirement to Learn in Arabic

There are over 5,000 languages and dialects in the world, with less than 4% of the world's population being native Arabic speakers. However, It is incumbent upon Muslims to pray in Arabic, recite the Qur'an in Arabic, and understand commentaries and the traditions of Muhammed in Arabic. We are left wondering why an all-knowing being would not provide a more efficient way to send his message to all people on earth and why he does not account for the immense diversity of languages.

We have made it a Qur'an in Arabic, that ye may be able to understand (and learn wisdom).

Myths and Legendary Tales

Humans Transformed into Apes

The Qur'an records a miraculous event where Sabbath breakers are transformed into apes. This account seems to be a mere legend and has no basis in scientific fact.

And well ye knew those amongst you who transgressed in the matter of the Sabbath: We said to them: "Be ye apes, despised and rejected."

Tribe Trapped Behind a Wall

The story of Dhul-Qarnayn says that a tribe is trapped behind a massive wall of Iron. According to the Qur'an, these two beast tribes concealed themselves behind this metal wall and will only be let free on the day of Judgement. Obviously, no such wall has ever been found nor is there a tribe somewhere on earth trapped behind it.

Until the Gog and Magog (people) are let through (their barrier), and they swiftly swarm from every hill.

Supernatural Food

The Quran repeats a legendary story of Mary receiving food sent down from heaven. There have never been any scientifically verified accounts of fully cooked food falling form the sky.

Jesus, son of Mary, said: O Allah, Lord of us! Send down for us a table spread with food from heaven, that it may be a feast for us, for the first of us and for the last of us, and a sign from Thee. Give us sustenance, for Thou art the Best of Sustainers.

A Stick Transforms into a Serpent

The Quran repeats ancient Jewish myths about Moses turning his staff into a snake.

Then (Moses) threw his rod, and behold! it was a serpent, plain (for all to see)!

Solomon's Army of Genies and Birds

Throughout history, kings and emperors had commanded huge and small amount of armies. None was ever recorded to possess armies that entirely consists of birds and genies. This story in the Quran draws on Jewish folklore.

And Solomon was David's heir. He said: "O ye people! We have been taught the speech of birds, and on us has been bestowed (a little) of all things: this is indeed Grace manifest (from Allah.)And before Solomon were marshalled his hosts― of Jinns and men and birds, and they were all kept in order and ranks.

He spoke with a Hoopoe bird and wanted to punish it for a small error.

And he took a muster of the Birds; and he said: "Why is it I see not the Hoopoe? Or is he among the absentees? I will certainly punish him with a severe Penalty, or execute him, unless he bring me a clear reason (for absence).

The Hoopoe bird was in fact busy eavesdropping on a beautiful female ruler, Queen Sheba.

I found (there) a woman ruling over them and provided with every requisite; and she has a magnificent throne.

Jonah Performs Repentance inside a Fish

A human could not live inside a fish and pray. This story, found in the Quran, is again a repetition of ancient Jewish myths.

Then the big Fish did swallow him, and he had done acts worthy of blame. Had it not been that he (repented and) glorified Allah,He would certainly have remained inside the Fish till the Day of Resurrection.But We cast him forth, on the naked shore in a state of sickness

Muhammad Flies on a Winged Horse to Heaven

It took one week to travel from Mecca to the Farthest Mosque by camel. But Quran reveals that a magical winged horse, called the Buraq, traveled a similar distance in a matter of minutes. No such creature has ever been shown to be real and it seems to only exist in legend and mythology.

Glory to (Allah) Who did take His servant for a Journey by night from the Sacred Mosque to the farthest Mosque, whose precincts We did bless,- in order that We might show him some of Our Signs: for He is the One Who heareth and seeth (all things).

Body Parts Speak

The limbs and organs of a human are controlled by the brain that conveys electrical signal through the nervous system. But the Qur'an believes that the limbs can talk and testify against the person, even though they would have no voice, memory or mind of their own.

On the Day when their tongues, their hands, and their feet will bear witness against them as to their actions.

The Ocean Split in Half

Moses and the Israelis crossed an ocean that was split into two halves.

And remember We divided the sea for you and saved you and drowned Pharaoh's people within your very sight.

Solomon can Control the Wind

King Solomon had the authority to manipulate the wind at his command and could fly anywhere he wanted.

Then We subjected the wind to his power, to flow gently to his order, Whithersoever he willed
A flying carpet made from wood, on top of which he could carry everything in his kingdom including chairs, to wherever Solomon wants to go, whilst flocks of birds would fly over to give shade
Ibn-Kathir

A Dead Man Testified against his Killer

Scientifically, a man who has died for a few days can never be resurrected.

And We said: Smite him with some of it. Thus Allah bringeth the dead to life and showeth you His portents so that ye may understand.

Animals Speak to Humans

The Quran states that a Beast will come and tell humans the truth.

And when the Word is fulfilled against them (the unjust), we shall produce from the earth a beast to (face) them: He will speak to them, for that mankind did not believe with assurance in Our Signs.

Mountains and Birds can Sing Songs

And assuredly We gave David grace from Us, (saying): O ye hills and birds, echo his psalms of praise! And We made the iron supple unto him

Others

Mathematical Error in Hereditary Laws

4.11: Allah (thus) directs you as regards your Children's (Inheritance): to the male, a portion equal to that of two females: if only daughters, two or more, their share is two-thirds of the inheritance; if only one, her share is a half. For parents, a sixth share of the inheritance to each, if the deceased left children; if no children, and the parents are the (only) heirs, the mother has a third; if the deceased Left brothers (or sisters) the mother has a sixth. (The distribution in all cases ('s) after the payment of legacies and debts. Ye know not whether your parents or your children are nearest to you in benefit. These are settled portions ordained by Allah; and Allah is All-knowing, Al-wise.

4.12: In what your wives leave, your share is a half, if they leave no child; but if they leave a child, ye get a fourth; after payment of legacies and debts. In what ye leave, their share is a fourth, if ye leave no child; but if ye leave a child, they get an eighth; after payment of legacies and debts. If the man or woman whose inheritance is in question, has left neither ascendants nor descendants, but has left a brother or a sister, each one of the two gets a sixth; but if more than two, they share in a third; after payment of legacies and debts; so that no loss is caused (to any one). Thus is it ordained by Allah; and Allah is All-knowing, Most Forbearing.
  • wife: 1/8 = 3/24,
  • daughters: 2/3 = 16/24,
  • father: 1/6 = 4/24,
  • mother: 1/6 = 4/24,
  • total = 27/24=1.125

The total does not equal to 1. This error can never be reconciled in any way. [7]

People use the Forehead to Lie

Brain wave technology has shown that electrical activity happens in the entire brain when a person is being deceitful.

Let him beware! If he desist not, We will drag him by the forelock. A lying, sinful forehead.

Space Flight is Impossible

The first space ships and travel beyond the atmosphere of earth occurred over 60 years ago. With current technology, mankind has already explored the end of the solar system. The Qur'an however, implies that going beyond the earth is forbidden. .

O ye assembly of Jinns and men! If it be ye can pass beyond the zones of the heavens and the earth, pass ye! not without authority shall ye be able to pass!

See Also