Translation of Surah Al-Mu’minun, Ayah 14:
“Then We made the sperm-drop into a clinging clot, and We made the clot into a lump [of flesh], and We made [from] the lump, bones, and We covered the bones with flesh; then We developed him into another creation. So blessed is Allah, the best of creators.” (Qur’an, 23:14)
Key Phases of Human Creation Mentioned:
1. Nutfa (Sperm-drop):
• The verse begins with the mention of the sperm-drop, or “nutfa” in Arabic, which refers to the seminal fluid responsible for fertilization. This highlights the initial stage of human development, starting with a minute drop of fluid.
2. Alaqah (Clinging Clot):
• The “alaqah” is described as a “clinging clot,” which scientifically corresponds to the embryo’s early stage when it attaches itself to the uterine wall. The Arabic term “alaq” can also be interpreted as something that hangs or clings, which accurately reflects the way the embryo implants and clings to the uterine wall during early pregnancy.
3. Mudghah (Lump of Flesh):
• The “mudghah” or “lump of flesh” refers to the stage when the embryo begins to take on a more discernible shape, resembling a chewed-like substance (as the term suggests in Arabic). This stage is scientifically described as the somite stage, where the embryo begins to form body segments.
4. Formation of Bones:
• The next phase is the creation of bones. Modern embryology shows that the skeletal structure begins to form in the fetus during early development, providing support and framework for the body.
5. Covering of Flesh:
• After the bones are formed, they are “covered with flesh,” as the verse describes. This process reflects the stage when muscles, tissues, and skin start to envelop the skeletal system, completing the formation of the body.
6. New Creation:
• The verse culminates by describing the human being as “another creation.” This marks the final stage, when the human being takes on their distinct form, developing unique features and attributes, such as consciousness, intellect, and a soul. This transformation from a physical entity into a spiritual and intellectual being is what distinguishes humans from other forms of creation.
Scientific Insights:
• Embryological Accuracy:
The stages described in this verse align remarkably well with modern embryology. The sequential development – starting from the fertilized egg (nutfa), to the embryo’s attachment to the uterine wall (alaqah), then the formation of a recognizable shape (mudghah), followed by the development of bones and muscles – accurately mirrors the discoveries of modern science about the stages of fetal development. It is important to note that these details were revealed in the Quran over 1400 years ago, long before the science of embryology developed.
• Clinging Clot and the Embryo:
The description of the embryo as “alaqah” (clinging clot) highlights a unique phenomenon where the embryo attaches itself to the mother’s womb, forming a vital connection through which it receives nutrients for growth. The imagery of something that clings or hangs is scientifically accurate, as the early-stage embryo does indeed attach to the uterine lining in this way.
• Bones and Flesh:
The process of bone formation followed by the covering of bones with flesh also matches scientific observations. Cartilage forms first, followed by the hardening of bones, and then the muscles, skin, and other tissues develop around the skeletal structure.
Conclusion:
This verse from Surah Al-Mu’minun provides a detailed account of human development, beginning from conception to the formation of bones and flesh. The accuracy of this description aligns with modern scientific discoveries in the field of embryology. The verse emphasizes the miraculous nature of human creation, underscoring Allah’s power and wisdom. The final declaration in the verse, “So blessed is Allah, the best of creators,” serves as a reflection on the complexity and perfection of human creation, inviting us to marvel at the divine craftsmanship behind life itself.