Written and collected by Zia H Shah MD

Abstract: This article offers a comprehensive commentary on Qur’an 57:25, a verse rich with theological, philosophical, and scientific significance. The verse declares that God sent His messengers with clear signs and gave them the Book and the Balance so that humanity may uphold justice, and that He “sent down iron” with strength and benefit for humankind. We begin by analyzing the verse’s theological themes of divine justice, revelation, and the prophetic mission. We then explore the deeper philosophical symbolism of the “Book,” the “Balance” (al-Mīzān), and “iron” – examining their epistemic and moral implications in Islamic thought. Next, we discuss the verse’s scientific relevance: how classical scholars (e.g. al-Ṭabarī, Fakhr al-Dīn al-Rāzī) interpreted the mention of iron, and how modern observations (such as iron’s extraterrestrial origin via stellar nucleosynthesis) have given new perspectives on this verse. Finally, a thematic epilogue connects Qur’an 57:25 with other Qur’anic verses that hint at scientific phenomena – including 21:30 (cosmic origins), 51:47 (expanding universe), and 67:3–4 (layered creation) – highlighting the harmony between the Qur’anic message and the wonders of creation.

Read further in PDF file: