The Quran describes a people who carved their homes in the rocks, were warned by Allah, and then faced destruction due to their disobedience. This matches modern archaeological discoveries about the ancient city of Petra, whether this is the place mentioned in the Quran or not, it showcases how accurately these verses can be seen in real life. In Surah Al-Hijr:
Indeed, the residents of the Stone Valley also denied the messengers.15:80
We gave them Our signs, but they turned away from them.15:81
They carved their homes in the mountains, feeling secure.15:82
But the ˹mighty˺ blast overtook them in the morning,15:83
Petra, a city carved into colourful sandstone cliffs, was once the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom and a major trading hub. Archaeologists have dated its settlement back to as early as 9,000 BC, with its iconic structures built later during the 4th century BC. Its advanced architecture and water systems suggest a progression from simpler, rock-carved dwellings. Remarkably, archaeologists found inscriptions in Petra bearing the name Allah, including references like Qos-Allah and others combining Allah’s name with phrases indicating dedication or peace. These inscriptions suggest that the people of Petra knew Allah but continued to worship other deities, as described in the Quran. The Nabataeans, the civilization behind Petra, worshipped a pantheon of gods, including Dushara (their primary god) and goddesses like Al-'Uzza, Allat, and Manat. They also incorporated deified kings into their worship. Some inscriptions mention names like "Qos-Allah," which associates the deity Qos with Allah. This reflects a broader pre-Islamic tradition where "Allah" was part of the Arab religious lexicon but was not yet associated exclusively with monotheism. Archaeological discoveries include steles and other artifacts bearing references to Qos-Allah and similar names. These findings indicate that the Nabataeans had a complex and evolving religious system where Allah's name appeared alongside other gods, consistent with polytheistic practices. The Quran states that these people, confident in the security of their rock-hewn homes, faced destruction by a divine shout, leaving their homes intact but their lives taken. Archaeological findings align with this: Petra's structures were preserved, and the city was later abandoned. How could an unlettered man 1400 years ago know such details about Petra, its people, and their connection to Allah? This is another example of knowledge in the Quran that aligns with modern discoveries, defying explanation except through divine origin.
