Creation in Stages

The Quran explains that human creation occurred through various stages. The verses describe how a human begins as an extract of clay, which then turns into a drop of fluid, subsequently forming into a clinging form, and finally into a fetus that develops distinct features and bones. This portrayal is seen by some commentators as an allegorical representation of embryonic development, underlining Allah’s power and intricate design in every stage of creation.

وَلَقَدْ خَلَقْنَا ٱلْإِنسَٰنَ مِن سُلَٰلَةٍۢ مِّن طِينٍۢ

We created man from an extract of clay.

The Holy Quran · Al-Muminoon (The Believers) · 23:12

ثُمَّ جَعَلْنَٰهُ نُطْفَةًۭ فِى قَرَارٍۢ مَّكِينٍۢ

Then We made him a seed, in a secure repository.

The Holy Quran · Al-Muminoon (The Believers) · 23:13

ثُمَّ خَلَقْنَا ٱلنُّطْفَةَ عَلَقَةًۭ فَخَلَقْنَا ٱلْعَلَقَةَ مُضْغَةًۭ فَخَلَقْنَا ٱلْمُضْغَةَ عِظَٰمًۭا فَكَسَوْنَا ٱلْعِظَٰمَ لَحْمًۭا ثُمَّ أَنشَأْنَٰهُ خَلْقًا ءَاخَرَ ۚ فَتَبَارَكَ ٱللَّهُ أَحْسَنُ ٱلْخَٰلِقِينَ

Then We developed the seed into a clot. Then We developed the clot into a lump. Then We developed the lump into bones. Then We clothed the bones with flesh. Then We produced it into another creature. Most Blessed is God, the Best of Creators.

The Holy Quran · Al-Muminoon (The Believers) · 23:14

وَقَدْ خَلَقَكُمْ أَطْوَارًا

Although He created you in stages.

The Holy Quran · Nooh (Noah) · 71:14