Brief Info
Sūrat al-Ikhlas, No.112. Revealed in Makkah, 4 verses. This Sūra is named al-Ikhlas as it purifies the one who recites it with reflection and firm belief from all forms of polytheism. It is also known as al-Tawhid. It encapsulates the Unity of God in a succinct and most comprehensive manner. This Sūra is only one of the two Sūras that do not take its name from anything mentioned within it.
After Sūra al-Fatiha, this is the most important Sūra in the acts of worship. One scholar has said about it beautifully: The entire Quran is an oyster, and the pearl is his statement ‘Say, He, God is One’.
Merits of reciting the Sūra
Many hadith narrate the importance of reciting this extraordinary Sūra.
The Prophet once asked his companions; ‘Is anyone of you unable to recite a third of the Quran at night?’. One of the companions replied, ‘Who can do that, O Prophet of Allah?’. The Prophet told them they could do that by reciting this Sūra.
When Saʿd b. Muʿādh died, thousands of angels participated in his funeral, among them Jibra’īl. The Prophet asked Jibra’īl why Sa’d had the honor of his presence at his funeral. Jibrīa’l replied that it was because of Sa’d’s constant recitation of Sūrat al-Ikhlas at all times, while standing, sitting, walking, riding, etc.
This sure should be recited at least once during the daily prayers.
Synopsis of Contents
This Sūra speaks of the unity of God and staying away from any form of polytheism. It is a complete affirmation of the core belief of Islam in the Oneness of God and His needlessness. All teachings of Islam are based on this foundation.
Suggested verses for memorization in Arabic and English
The entire Sūra.
Activities for self-study
For a further study about this Sūra check https://en.wikishia.net/view/
Sources
Āyatullāh Nāsir Makārim Shirazi (Ed.) Tafsir Namūne; https://www.al-islam.org/enlightening-commentary-light-holy-quran-vol-20/surah-shams-chapter-91; Ali Quli Qarai, The Qur’an With a Phrase-by-Phrase English.