Bioluminescence Quran Perspective
Najib Abdi,
Bioluminescence
Bioluminescence is the ability of certain organisms to produce light through chemical reactions within their bodies. The light is produced by a chemical reaction involving a light-emitting molecule called luciferin and an enzyme called luciferase. This reaction can occur in various forms, including photoproteins and other auxiliary proteins that enhance the bioluminescent reaction.
The purpose of producing this lights are:
- Communication: Some species use light signals to communicate with each other in the pitch-black environment deep sea.
- Camouflage: Certain animals use bioluminescence to blend with the faint light from above, hiding from predators.
- Attraction: Predatory fish and other creatures use bioluminescence to attract unsuspecting prey closer.
Darkness in the Depths of the Ocean
The darkness in deep seas begins around 200 meters deep and below. Beyond this depth, light penetration diminishes and below a depth of 1,000 meters (about 3,280 feet) there is almost no light complete darkness.
Deep-sea animals create bioluminescent display of light to attract mates, confuse predators, or lure prey. The Quran (the book of Islam) vividly describes the darkness in the deep seas and oceans in the following verse:
- Quran Verse (Surah An-Nur 24:40):
Or like the depths of darkness in a vast deep ocean, overwhelmed with waves topped by waves, topped by clouds: depths of darkness, one above another: if a man stretches out his hand, he will not see it! If Allah does not give light to a person he will not have light!
We discuss how the seas has layers of waves of darkness in the next blog. Here
Bioluminescence creatures generate their own light in the darkness of the ocean depths. "If Allah does not give light to a person he will not have light" from this we can understand the depth darkness in the deep sea and that only Allah can provide light in such darkness.
Figure 1: Shows how creatures generate light. (No copyright intended. For educational use only)
Quran's Timeless Insight
The Quran (the book of Islam) mentions these phenomena over 1,400 years ago, predating modern technology's exploration of the deep sea and its darkness.
The Quran verses on bioluminescence in the depth deep of the sea prompts contemplation on the verse from Surah Fussilat (41:53):
- Quran Verse (Surah Fussilat 41:53):
We will show them Our signs in the universe and within themselves until it becomes clear to them that this ˹Quran˺ is the truth. Is it not enough that your Lord is a Witness over all things?
This rhetorical question invites reflection on the profound wisdom embedded in the Quran's descriptions, challenging humanity (us) to ponder the greatness of Allah's creations and divine knowledge. He is Al Musawir the one who brings into existence whatever He wills and in whatever manner He wills it.
Summmary
Bioluminescence is not only a captivating natural phenomenon but also a testament to the profound wisdom and intricate design of Allah's creation. The ability of deep-sea creatures to produce light in complete darkness exemplifies the extraordinary adaptations found in nature.
As we continue to explore and understand the natural world through science, we find more instances where these discoveries are mentioned in the Quran over 1400 years ago.