Surah Al-Mu'minun and "Seven Paths on You"
A Holistic Analysis of Surah Al-Mu’minun and the Verse “We Created Seven Paths Above You” Introduction Surah Al-Mu’minun, verse 23:17, profoundly expresses the Qur’an’s understanding of creation in both its cosmic and human dimensions. The phrase, “And indeed, We created above you seven paths” , stands out as a unique metaphor alluding to the multi-layered structure of the universe and the inner process of human creation. This article examines the context of the verse and, considering the Qur’an’s overall perspective on creation, explores the concept of “seven paths” on both physical and spiritual planes, relating it to the human existence journey. 1. The Theme of Creation in Surah Al-Mu’minun and the Context of the Verse Verses 12–16 of the surah detail the stages of human creation: Beginning with nutfa (a drop of sperm), Followed by alaqah (a clinging clot), Then mudghah (a chewed-like lump of flesh), The formation of bones and their covering with flesh, And fin...