The Deep Meaning and Significance of Surah Al-Fatiha in Islam
Have you ever wondered why we recite Surah Al-Fatiha in every rakah during prayers? What makes it so unique and beautiful? Al-Fatiha is also known as Umm al-Kitab. Read more to discover the significance of Surah.
Introduction to Surah Al-Fatiha
Al-Fatiha is the opening surah of the Holy Quran. It has seven verses. Its simple and poetic structure makes it easy to memorize. The beautiful surah sounds nothing less than a sweet melody to the ears.
Theme of Surah
Surah Al-Fatiha is the essence of Islam. It is a comprehensive prayer or communication a believer makes with his Creator. The believer starts by thanking Him for His blessings. He glorifies Him by calling Him Ar-Rahman, Ar-Raheem. These are two of the most outstanding attributes of Allah. Then, he acknowledges His undeniable and unparalleled might. These verses set the tone for the rest of the script in the Holy Quran. It shows the humility of the believer and the Superiority of Allah.
Another important theme of Surah Al-Fatiha is the declaration of Allah as the Master of the Day of Judgement. This is one of the core beliefs of Islam. Allah will hold everyone accountable on the Day of Resurrection. He will pardon whom He wants. Nobody can intercede without His permission.
In the next verses, the believer begs Allah for His guidance and support. It is only Him whom we worship and ask for help. This has very important implications. Firstly, it emphasizes on Unity of Allah. Secondly, it protects a believer’s sense of self-esteem that he must ask for help from nobody but Allah.
Lastly, the believer prays to Allah to guide him and rank him among those who earned His pleasure and favor. Protect him from the path of those who earned Allah’s wrath and wronged themselves.
Significance of Surah Al-Fatiha
Surah is also known as “Kafiya”, meaning sufficient. This indicates the integrity and soundness of this surah. It is one of the two lights bestowed by Allah upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), the other being the last verses of Surah al-Baqarah. According to a hadith, Surah Fatiha guards a person against evil. Due to all its benefits and perfection, no prayer is complete without its recitation.
Surah Al-Fatiha is a conversation of a believer with his Lord. Allah replies verse by verse when the believer recites it. This shows the importance of the surah.
Benefits of Reciting Surah Al-Fatiha
Surah has many benefits. That is why people recite it on important occasions, such as funerals.
Strengthens Bond With Allah
Surah Al-Fatiha is a direct dialogue between a Muslim and Allah. He glorifies, thanks, and prays to Allah in the surah. Allah replies to his plea and blesses him. When the person calls Allah with His beautiful names, Allah responds with His Mercy and Benevolence. Thus, the surah brings a person closer to Allah. When he feels lonely and helpless, reciting Surah gives comfort and solace to a person.
Cures Illnesses
The surah is also called Al-Shifa, meaning the Cure. Surah al-Fatiha has therapeutic traits. It can sure illnesses. Those who are sick must recite this surah for a speedy and lasting recovery.
Best Prayer For Lasting Success
Surah Al-Fatiha is a comprehensive prayer for success in both worlds. The believer begs Allah for help. Also, he pleads to Him to show the Guided Path. He prays to Him to protect him from the path of those who went astray. By walking the Right Path, we attain a peaceful and contented life. Moreover, by staying away from evil, we gain Allah’s pleasure. We will be careful not to commit sins so that on the Day of Judgement, we rank among those who earned Allah’s favor.
Earns Special Reward
Recitation of the glorious surah earns immense reward. It has spiritual healing power. It cleanses the heart and fills it with the love of Allah. It protects a believer from wrongdoings. That is the reason why we recite it in the obligatory prayers.
To Summarize
Surah Al-Fatiha is the greatest surah of the Holy Quran. It is the best surah to praise Allah and seek His blessings and guidance. By understanding its true meaning and significance, we can improve our spirituality and mindfulness for a successful life in both worlds.