Sūrat al-Ikhlās

Sūrah No. 112. Revealed in Makkah, 4 verses. This Sūrah is named al-Ikhlās as it purifies the one who reflects on it from all forms of polytheism. It is also known as al-Tawhīd. It encapsulates the Unity of God in a succinct and most comprehensive manner. This Sūrah is only one of two Sūras that do not take its name from anything mentioned within it.

After Sūrat al-Fātiha, this is the most important Sūrah in the acts of worship. One scholar has said about it; The entire Quran is an oyster, and the pearl is his statement ‘Say, He, God is One’.

Merits of reciting the Sūrah

Many hadith narrate the importance of reciting this extraordinary Sūrah.

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 Jibrīl. The Prophet asked Jibrīl why Sa’d had the honor of his presence at his funeral. Jibrīl replied that it was always because of Sa’d’s constant recitation of Sūrat al-Ikhlas, while standing, sitting, walking, riding, etc.

This sūrah should be recited at least once during the daily prayers.

General synopsis of contents

This Sūrah 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 reflection and memorization.

The entire Sūrah.

Activities for self-study

For a further study about this Sūrah check https://en.wikishia.net/view/Sura_al-Ikhlas