According to search-discovered classical Islamic scholarship, the 'Seven Heavens' (السماوات السبع - as-Samawat as-Sab') are a literal and foundational concept in Quranic cosmology. Tafsir giants like Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari explain that verses such as 67:3 and 65:12 refer to seven distinct, physical celestial realms created in layers ('tibaqan'). This structure is not merely symbolic but a reality of the unseen (ghayb), designed as a profound sign (ayah) of Allah's omnipotence and perfect creative power. The unified theme across all Quranic references is that these heavens, and all beings within them, are in a constant state of glorifying God. The purpose of their creation, as explicitly stated in the Quran, is for humanity to recognize that 'Allah has power over all things and that Allah has encompassed everything with knowledge' (65:12), thereby strengthening faith and inspiring awe in the Creator.