7 Astonishing Miracles of the Prophets in the Quran That Will Make You Think

The Quran, the holy book of Islam, is not only a guide for life but also a treasure trove of incredible stories. Among its most captivating narratives are the accounts of the prophets in Quran, who were divinely chosen messengers sent to guide humanity. These prophets, endowed with extraordinary abilities by God (Allah), performed astounding miracles as clear signs of their divine mission. These aren’t just ancient tales; they are profound testaments to God’s immense power, designed to make humanity reflect and believe. This article will explore seven such astonishing miracles of the prophets in the Quran, delving into details that are sure to spark contemplation and wonder.
Divine Power Revealed: Miracles of Early Prophets
The Quran beautifully recounts the challenges faced by prophets throughout history and the remarkable ways Allah supported them. These miracles served as irrefutable evidence for their respective communities.
1. The Story of Moses Splitting the Sea in Quran
One of the most dramatic and well-known miracles of the prophets in the Quran is that of Prophet Moses (Musa) and the parting of the Red Sea. This incredible event showcases divine power. Facing relentless persecution from Pharaoh and his army, Moses led the Children of Israel to the sea, seemingly trapped.
- Quranic Account: As Pharaoh’s army closed in, fear gripped the Israelites. “And when the two companies saw one another, the companions of Moses said, ‘Indeed, we are to be overtaken!'” (Quran 26:61). It was at this desperate moment that Allah commanded Moses: “Then We inspired to Moses, ‘Strike with your staff the sea,’ and it parted, and each portion was like a great towering mountain.” (Quran 26:63). The waters miraculously separated, forming a dry path, allowing Moses and his followers to cross safely. When Pharaoh and his army attempted to follow, the waters crashed back, engulfing them.
- Significance: This miracle was a powerful demonstration of Allah’s absolute control over nature, saving the oppressed and destroying the oppressors. It solidified Moses’s prophethood and instilled profound faith in his followers, while proving the futility of Pharaoh’s might against divine will. The Story of Moses splitting the sea in Quran remains a cornerstone narrative of liberation and divine intervention.
2. Abraham Surviving the Fire Quran Story
The narrative of Prophet Abraham (Ibrahim) is replete with lessons in unwavering faith, none more striking than his miraculous survival from a raging inferno. Abraham challenged the idolatry of his people, who worshipped statues and celestial bodies, by breaking their idols.Infuriated, they decided to execute him by burning.
- Quranic Account: “They said, ‘Burn him and support your gods, if you are to act.'” (Quran 21:68). A massive fire was prepared, and Abraham was cast into it. However, Allah intervened directly: “We said, ‘O fire, be coolness and safety upon Abraham!'” (Quran 21:69). The fire, by divine command, lost its destructive nature, becoming harmless to Abraham.
- Significance: This miracle underscored Abraham’s profound submission to Allah and the ultimate power of God over all creation. It taught his people that true power lies with the Creator, not with man-made idols or even the most destructive elements of nature. The Abraham surviving the fire Quran story is a powerful testament to faith and divine protection.
3. Prophet Jesus Speaking from the Cradle
The birth of Prophet Jesus (Isa) itself was miraculous, as he was born to Mary (Maryam) without a father, a unique event among humanity. When Mary was accused by her people, a truly astonishing event occurred.
- Quranic Account: When Mary returned to her people with the newborn Jesus, they questioned her purity. In her distress, she pointed to the infant. “They said, ‘How can we speak to one who is in the cradle as a child?'” (Quran 19:29). Then, to their utter astonishment, the infant Jesus spoke: “He said, ‘Indeed, I am the servant of Allah. He has given me the Scripture and made me a prophet. And He has made me blessed wherever I am and has enjoined upon me prayer and zakah as long as I remain alive.'” (Quran 19:30-31).
- Significance: This miracle instantly cleared Mary’s name and proved Jesus’s prophetic status from his very infancy. The Prophet Jesus speaking from the cradle is an extraordinary example of a miracle confirming prophethood and divine assistance, leaving no doubt about the truth of Mary’s pure conduct.
4. Prophet Jonah in the Belly of the Whale
Prophet Jonah (Yunus) delivered God’s message to his people but, frustrated by their disbelief, he left his mission without awaiting divine permission. This act led to an extraordinary trial.
- Quranic Account: Jonah boarded a ship, and during a storm, he was cast overboard and swallowed by a huge fish (often translated as a whale). “And indeed, Jonah was among the messengers. [Mention] when he fled to the loaded ship. And he drew lots and was among the losers. Then the fish swallowed him while he was blameworthy.” (Quran 37:139-142). In the utter darkness of the whale’s belly, Jonah called out to Allah: “And [mention] Dhun-Nun, when he went off in anger and thought that We would not decree [anything] upon him. But he called out within the darknesses, ‘There is no deity except You; exalted are You. Indeed, I have been of the wrongdoers.'” (Quran 21:87). His prayer was answered by Allah, and the fish then brought him back to land.
- Significance: This miracle highlights the consequences of abandoning one’s duty, the power of repentance, and Allah’s immense mercy and ability to save His servants even from the most dire situations. It’s a testament to God’s boundless power.
Later Prophets: Miracles of Mercy and Truth
Throughout history, prophets performed miracles, each one specially suited to their community’s distinct needs and difficulties.
5. Prophet Solomon and His Control Over Wind and Jinns
Prophet Solomon (Sulayman) was granted extraordinary dominion, unmatched by anyone before or after him, as a sign of his prophethood and a blessing from Allah.
- Quranic Account: The Quran details his unique abilities: “And to Solomon [We subjected] the wind, its morning [journey was that of] a month, and its evening [journey] a month. And We made flow for him a spring of [liquid] copper. And among the jinn were those who worked for him by the permission of his Lord.” (Quran 34:12). He could command the wind to travel vast distances in a short time and control jinn (spiritual beings) to perform complex tasks, such as building grand structures and diving for treasures. He even understood the speech of birds.
- Significance: Solomon’s miracles proved God’s power over everything—nature, animals, and even unseen creatures—showing that all authority rests with Allah. It served as a lesson in gratitude, responsibility, and the transient nature of worldly power.
6. Prophet Salih and the She-Camel
Prophet Salih was sent to the people of Thamud, who were arrogant and carved magnificent homes from mountains. When they demanded a miracle as proof, Salih presented them with a divine sign.
- Quranic Account: The people of Thamud challenged Salih, demanding a miracle. “And to Thamud [We sent] their brother Salih. He said, ‘O my people, worship Allah; you have no deity other than Him. There has come to you clear evidence from your Lord: this is the she-camel of Allah [sent] to you as a sign.'” (Quran 7:73). This she-camel, according to tradition, emerged miraculously from a rock and was extraordinary: she drank all the water from a well on one day, and the people could drink on the next, and she produced milk for all. The people were warned not to harm her, but they defied the warning and killed her, leading to their ultimate destruction.
- Significance: This miracle was a clear and undeniable sign tailored to a people who sought material proof. It challenged their willingness to obey and showed what happens when pride and defiance go against God’s will.
The Apex of Prophethood: The Miracles of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ
The final prophet, Muhammad ﷺ, was also granted miracles, with the greatest being the Quran itself—a timeless, literary, and scientific marvel. However, other physical miracles also occurred to confirm his message.
7. Prophet Muhammad Splitting the Moon Miracle
One of the most astonishing physical miracles performed by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was the Prophet Muhammad splitting the moon miracle. This event is explicitly mentioned in the Quran and supported by numerous authentic narrations.
- Quranic Account: “The Hour has approached, and the moon has split. And if they see a miracle, they turn away and say, ‘Passing magic.'” (Quran 54:1-2). This verse directly refers to the event.
- Significance: According to Islamic tradition, this miracle occurred in Mecca when disbelievers challenged the Prophet to show them a sign. The moon reportedly split into two distinct parts, visible to eyewitnesses, before rejoining. This powerful demonstration was a direct response to their challenge, though many still rejected it as mere illusion. This miracle stands as a testament to Allah’s absolute power and the truth of Muhammad’s ﷺ prophethood.
These 7 astonishing miracles of the prophets in the Quran serve as powerful reminders of divine intervention throughout history. They are not mere anecdotes but foundational narratives that teach lessons about faith, obedience, resilience, and the omnipotence of Allah. Reflecting on these miracles of the Quran strengthens belief and encourages deeper contemplation of the universe and our place within it. They stand as enduring proofs of the truth brought by the prophets in Quran, prompting all who learn of them to truly think and ponder.
Q&A
What are the miracles of Elisha?
Prophet Elisha performed many miracles, as described primarily in the Books of Kings in the Bible. These include purifying poisoned water, miraculously providing oil for a widow, raising a
What are the three miracles of prophet Isa?
Prophet Isa (Jesus), peace be upon him, performed many miracles by Allah’s permission, with three prominent ones being speaking from the cradle, breathing life into clay birds, and healing the blind and the lepers, and raising the dead.
What prophets had miracles?
Many prophets across Abrahamic faiths performed miracles, including Moses (splitting the sea), Jesus (healing the sick and raising the dead), and Muhammad (the Quran and splitting the moon). Other prophets like Abraham, Salih, and Solomon also performed astonishing acts through divine power.