51:7
By the Sky with (its) numerous Paths,
The Qur’ān refers to the creation of “seven paths” above humanity, which classical exegetes interpret as the seven heavens. In Qur’ān 23:17, God declares that He created seven paths above humankind and that He is never unaware of His creation. According to Ibn Kathīr, after describing the creation of human beings, the verse turns attention to the creation of the seven heavens, a theme that frequently appears in the Qur’ān alongside references to the creation of humanity. This pairing highlights the greater magnitude of the heavens and the earth compared with the creation of human beings, as stated in Qur’ān 40:57. Ibn Kathīr notes that the Qur’ān often connects cosmological creation with human origin and destiny, including themes of resurrection, reward, and punishment (Ibn Kathīr, n.d.).
Exegetes such as Mujāhid interpreted the phrase “seven paths” (sab‘a ṭarā’iq) as referring to the seven heavens. This interpretation aligns with other Qur’ānic passages that mention the layered structure of the heavens, including verses that state that the seven heavens and all that exists within them glorify God (Qur’ān 17:44) and that God created the seven heavens one above another (Qur’ān 71:15). Similarly, Qur’ān 65:12 describes God as the One who created seven heavens and a corresponding structure of the earth, with His command descending between them so that humanity may recognize His power and comprehensive knowledge. These verses collectively emphasize both the ordered structure of the cosmos and God’s complete awareness of all aspects of creation (Ibn Kathīr, n.d.).
Ibn Kathīr further explains that God’s statement that He is not unaware of creation indicates His perfect knowledge of all things. Nothing in the heavens or the earth is hidden from Him. He knows what enters the earth and what emerges from it, what descends from the heavens and what ascends to them. Every mountain, sea, landscape, and tree is known to Him, and even the falling of a single leaf occurs within His knowledge. Likewise, every grain within the darkness of the earth and everything that is fresh or dry is recorded in a clear register, demonstrating the completeness of divine knowledge and oversight over the universe (Ibn Kathīr, n.d.).
(6:59)
References:
Kathir, Ibn. Tafsir Ibn Kathir. (surah 23 pg. 16-18).