Title: Extra-Terrestrials in the Qur'an Question: Is there support (even in the most liberal interpretations) for other life forms in the Universe (other than Angels & Jinn) in the Qur'an? Is there any evidence or hints about extraterrestrial beings, UFO's, etc., supported by the Qur'an? If there is, then what is the implication in the context of God, humankind and other livings things in the Universe? From your understanding of the Qur'an (or Islam as a whole) do you believe that the Universe was created for mankind? Obviously, God planned our existence but does this necessarily imply that the entire Universe was created just to have us exist? It seems to me that God did plan us but that this entire creation of His is not limited to our existence and that the big picture is not humankind (only from our perspective it is). Am I incorrect about my assumptions? After the human race ends and the earth is no more won't the Universe keep on going (according to the Natural Laws God setup) or is it rendered useless and ended due to the death of mankind? It's hard for me to conceptualize that this vastness is tied into our very existence. Wouldn't that be a bit arrogant of us or is it our right to think that way? Ronnie USA Answer: The Qur'an has not referred to any life in the universe besides those that you have mentioned in your question. Nevertheless, this does not imply that the concept of extra-terrestrial life is contrary to the Qur'an. The Qur'an has simply not referred to it, even if it exists, as this information was not related to the message of the Qur'an. On the contrary, it would not be prudent to presume extra-terrestrial life merely on the basis of the vastness of the universe, as the Wise Creator of this vast universe may have his own reasons for creating such a vast universe. What we can say with confidence on the basis of the information provided by the Qur'an is that God has created everything - whether vast or small - with a purpose, yet this purpose may not always be fully known to man. As for the idea that the whole universe is made for man alone, one cannot claim to comment on it without either being fully aware of all the aspects of the Divine plan of creation - which no human being can claim to be - or being informed about these aspects through revelation. Neither of these cases is true. The Qur'an has indeed informed us that all the bounties of the earth have been created for man, but has not said that everything in the universe is created for man. Finally, it should be kept in mind that, according to the Qur'an, the beginning of the Day of Judgment would be marked by the destruction of the physical universe and not just by the end of human life on earth. I hope this helps. Regards, Moiz Amjad August 22, 2002