Oxidation in the Blood

The term “rusted” is here used to describe the constitution of the hearts of some human beings. Whilst the verse contains spiritual elements, the verse may also refer to the biochemical reaction that takes place in the heart. (Allah knows the truth.) Rust is the result of iron reacting with oxygen – this is the process known as oxidation.¹ The oxygen we absorb from the air is carried through the body by means of the iron present in the hemoglobin in the blood. During this process, the oxygen reacts with the iron in the blood. This means there is a constant resemblance to “rusting” in our blood. This “rusted” blood is then carried to the heart and around the circulation system of the human body.

An excess of iron in the blood can even lead to premature aging in all of the body's cells by causing rust-like oxidation. In the disease known as “hemochromatosis,” caused by excess iron accumulating in the body, iron produces a toxic effect and causes organs such as the liver to collapse. Since this is the result of iron oxidation, this phenomenon is often described as organs “rusting” or ”rust accumulation” in organs”.² In the journal Science News Dr. Sharon McDonnell describes the iron oxidation in cells making up organs as 'rusting'.³

Another reference says this about the disease: "… those with hemochromatosis absorb iron, storing it in their organs. Over time, it accumulates in toxic amounts, causing organs to fail because they literally rust."⁴

It is only possible to identify the reaction of iron with oxygen in the body–oxidation in the blood–in laboratories with highly advanced equipment. The fact that such a comparison, so compatible with the scientific data, appears in the Qur'an is an evident miracle, given the era of the Qur’anic revelation. The Qur'an also contains countless other pieces of information which are in complete agreement with modern science. Surely, this is another sign that it is the revelation of Omniscient Allah, our Lord and the Creator of all things.