The Profound Meaning of the Verse: “فلا أقسم بالخنس، الجوار الكنس”

The Quranic Verse

فلا أقسم بالخنس، الجوار الكنس

Surah: At-Takwir (سورة التكوير) | Verse: 15-16

Introduction

The Quran has served as a source of inspiration and guidance for countless generations. Its verses not only provide spiritual wisdom but also contain profound insights that align with modern scientific discoveries. The verse “فلا أقسم بالخنس، الجوار الكنس” exemplifies this remarkable foresight, hinting at cosmic phenomena that resonate with contemporary understandings of black holes. This connection between divine revelation and scientific inquiry underscores the belief that the Quran is not merely a human creation, but rather the word of God, revealing truths that transcend time and human knowledge.

Interpretation in English

1. “الخنس” (The Hiding Stars)

The term “الخنس” translates to “the hiding” or “the concealed.” This word beautifully captures the essence of black holes, which are astronomical phenomena that are invisible to the naked eye. Black holes possess gravitational forces so intense that they can pull in everything around them, including light. This characteristic of being “hidden” aligns perfectly with the nature of black holes, as they do not emit light and can only be detected through their interactions with nearby matter.

In a metaphorical sense, “الخنس” reflects the mysterious and elusive nature of these cosmic entities, inviting contemplation on the unseen aspects of the universe. Just as black holes hide from our direct observation, there are many mysteries in life and creation that remain concealed, urging us to seek deeper understanding.

2. “الكنس” (The Swiftly Moving Stars)

The term “الكنس” can be understood as “to sweep” or “to attract.” This is particularly relevant when considering the gravitational pull of black holes, which act like cosmic vacuum cleaners. They draw in surrounding stars, gas, and dust, much like a vacuum cleaner collects debris. The phrase “الجوار الكنس” refers to the stars that move swiftly around these black holes, influenced by their immense gravitational force.

This imagery of “sweeping” evokes the idea of a powerful force that not only attracts but also shapes the environment around it. The stars that orbit black holes exhibit high velocities as they are drawn into the gravitational field, creating a dynamic and complex dance in the cosmos. This aspect of “الكنس” serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of celestial bodies and the forces that govern their movements.

Conclusion

The verse “فلا أقسم بالخنس، الجوار الكنس” encapsulates profound cosmic truths through its choice of words. “الخنس” highlights the hidden nature of black holes, while “الكنس” illustrates their powerful gravitational influence that attracts and sweeps in surrounding matter. Together, these terms invite reflection on the mysteries of the universe and the unseen forces that shape our reality. This verse serves as a bridge between spirituality and science, encouraging us to explore the wonders of creation while acknowledging the limits of our understanding.