The idea of ​​human fingerprints in the Qur’an. Fingerprints, Quran and Science

The Idea of Human Fingerprints in the Qur’an: Fingerprints, Quran, and Science

In Surah Al-Qiyamah (The Resurrection), verse 75:3-4, Allah (SWT) states:

Do people think I can’t put his bones together? (75:3)
Why not, I am able to fix right up to the tips of his fingers . (75:4)

This verse is often cited by Islamic scholars and thinkers to demonstrate that the Qur’an contains knowledge that was not accessible to people at the time of its revelation. The phrase “the very tips of his fingers” is seen as a reference to human fingerprints, which are unique to each individual.

Linguistic and Contextual Interpretation

In Arabic بَنَان ‘banana’ means finger-top. If Allah wanted, He could have said like this – On the Day of Resurrection, I will recreate your eyes, ears, hands and feet properly. But why did Allah say about the tips of our fingers?

Herein lies the secret.

Photo: According to the Arabic dictionary,  the word بَنَان means the tip of the finger

At the time of the Qur’an’s revelation, there was no scientific understanding of fingerprints. However, the fact that the Qur’an points to a feature of the human body—fingerprints—provides insight into the divine nature of the text. The uniqueness of fingerprints, not fully recognized until modern science developed fingerprinting techniques in the 19th century, is one example of how the Qur’an aligns with scientific knowledge.

Fingerprints and Their Uniqueness: A Scientific Perspective

Fingerprints are unique to every individual, and even identical twins do not share the same fingerprints. They form in the fetus during gestation and are influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. The ridges and patterns that develop on the fingertips are highly distinctive and are used by law enforcement agencies worldwide for identification purposes.

Modern science began recognizing the importance of fingerprints in the late 19th century. Sir Francis Galton, a British scientist, is often credited with establishing the uniqueness and reliability of fingerprints for personal identification. His research paved the way for the use of fingerprints in criminal investigations and other fields.

In fact, fingerprints are considered one of the most reliable forms of identification because of their uniqueness. No two people, not even identical twins, have the same fingerprint pattern. This makes fingerprints a symbol of individuality, which aligns with the message in the Qur’anic verse.

Fingerprints and the Day of Judgment

In the Qur’an, the reference to the “tips of the fingers” occurs in the context of resurrection and the Day of Judgment. The verse speaks about how Allah is capable of reassembling the human body perfectly on the Day of Judgment, down to the finest details, such as the tips of the fingers. This concept ties the uniqueness of the human fingerprint to the resurrection, highlighting the idea that Allah (SWT) is able to restore every individual to their original form with perfect precision.

This interpretation also invites reflection on the concept of accountability in Islam. Just as every fingerprint is unique and distinctive, so too is every individual’s life and actions. The Day of Judgment will be a moment when every person will be judged according to their deeds, with perfect justice. The uniqueness of one’s fingerprint can be seen as a symbol of individual accountability.

Conclusion: A Divine Revelation in Harmony with Science

The idea of human fingerprints, as mentioned in the Qur’an, provides a remarkable connection between religious texts and modern scientific discoveries. The uniqueness of fingerprints, which is now understood as a cornerstone of personal identification and individuality, was alluded to in the Qur’an long before science confirmed it. This demonstrates the timeless nature of divine knowledge and the harmony between religious revelation and scientific inquiry.

For Muslims, the Qur’anic reference to the fingertips serves as a reminder of Allah’s mastery over creation and the individuality He has granted to every human. The study of science, especially in fields like human anatomy and biology, can only serve to deepen one’s appreciation of the Qur’an’s miraculous insights, strengthening both faith and understanding. The message is clear: the natural world, in all its intricate detail, is a reflection of the greatness of the Creator.