Introduction

Mountains are one of the natural phenomena that have a majestic form and an important role in life on Earth. Their existence not only adds beauty to nature but also helps maintain environmental balance and provides various needs for humans and other living beings. In scientific studies, mountains are understood as the result of geological processes that occur over a very long time and involve complex dynamics of the Earth.

On the other hand, from a religious perspective, mountains are seen as part of God’s creation with specific purposes. Therefore, the phenomenon of mountains can be studied from two perspectives  science and the Qur’an to provide a more complete understanding of their existence and function.

Definition of Mountains

In general, a mountain is a part of the Earth’s surface that rises high and has a large size. In Arabic, mountains are called jabal or jibāl, while the term rawāsi refers to something firm and deeply rooted in the Earth.

From a geological perspective, mountains are natural formations created by Earth’s dynamic processes. They are not only physical structures but also part of the Earth system that plays a role in maintaining environmental balance.

The Origin of Mountains According to Science and the Qur’an

a. Scientific Perspective

In geology, mountain formation involves two main processes: endogenic and exogenic. Endogenic processes come from within the Earth, such as tectonic plate movements and volcanic activity, while exogenic processes come from outside, such as erosion and weathering.

Mountains are also formed by the collision of tectonic plates, which causes the Earth’s crust to rise. In addition, magma activity from inside the Earth forms volcanoes. These processes take a very long time to create the mountains we see today.

b. Qur’anic Perspective

The Qur’an explains that mountains are created with specific purposes, one of which is to stabilize the Earth. In Surah Al-Anbiya [21]: 31, it is mentioned that mountains are placed so that the Earth does not shake with its inhabitants.

In Surah Fussilat [41]: 9–10, it is also explained that mountains were created along with the provision of resources needed for living beings.

Mountains as Pegs in the Perspective of Science and the Qur’an

a. Scientific Perspective

In geology, mountains do not only appear on the surface but also have deep structures beneath the Earth, known as “mountain roots.” These roots help maintain the balance of the Earth’s crust. This concept is explained in the theory of isostasy, which describes the balance between the Earth’s crust and the mantle beneath it.

Mountains also act as stabilizers that help reduce the impact of tectonic plate movements. With mountains, pressure within the Earth can be distributed, which may help reduce the risk of large disturbances such as earthquakes.

b. Qur’anic Perspective

In the Qur’an, mountains are described as firm structures that function as supports for the Earth. The term rawāsi indicates that mountains are deeply embedded like pegs that help stabilize the Earth.

This is also emphasized in Surah Al-Anbiya [21]: 31, which explains that mountains help prevent the Earth from shaking. This interpretation shows that mountains have an important role in maintaining natural balance.

Integration of Science and the Qur’an

Studies from both scientific and Qur’anic perspectives show a strong harmony. Science proves that mountains have deep roots and play a role in maintaining the balance of the Earth’s crust. Meanwhile, the Qur’an has long described mountains as supports or pegs of the Earth.

This alignment shows that the Qur’anic explanation of mountains does not contradict modern scientific findings. Instead, both perspectives complement each other in explaining natural phenomena more comprehensively.

Wisdom Behind the Creation of Mountains

The creation of mountains contains many lessons, including:

• Maintaining Earth’s balance
  Mountains act as stabilizers that help keep the Earth balanced.
• Source of life
  Mountains provide water, support plant growth, and serve as habitats for many living beings.
• Natural resources
  Mountains contain minerals that are useful for human life.
• Sign of God’s greatness
  Mountains reflect the power of Allah and can strengthen human faith.
• Reminder of the end of life
  The Qur’an mentions that mountains will be destroyed on the Day of Judgment, reminding us that everything is under God’s control.

Conclusion

The phenomenon of mountains as pegs, from both scientific and Qur’anic perspectives, shows harmony between knowledge and revelation. In science, mountains are understood as part of the Earth system with structures and functions that help maintain the balance of the Earth’s crust. In the Qur’an, mountains are described as supports that stabilize the Earth and serve as signs of God’s power.

Therefore, mountains are not only scientifically important but also carry deep spiritual meaning. Humans should protect and preserve mountains while using them as a way to understand the greatness of Allah and strengthen their faith.

Source

Hakim, L., Sholihah, P. D., Ramadani, P., Adawiyah, R., & Zahara, R. (2025). Gunung sebagai tanda kekuasaan Allah: Analisis tafsir ayat-ayat tentang eksistensi gunung. Hamalatul Qur’an: Jurnal Ilmu-Ilmu Al-Qur’an, 6(1), 224–233. https://ipv6.jogoroto.org/index.php/hq/article/view/519

Moh, Zainul Muttaqien (2023) EKSISTENSI GUNUNG DAN LAUT PADAAYAT-AYAT GEOLOGI MENURUT PENAFSIRAN M. QURAISH SHIHAB ( KAJIAN TAFSIR TEMATIK TAFSIR ALMISBAH). Masters thesis, UIN RADEN INTAN LAMPUNG. https://repository.radenintan.ac.id/25139/