Meaning of Quran

Al Fatihah | The Opener

With the name of Allah, the All-Merciful, the Very-Merciful.

[1:1] With the name of Allah, the All-Merciful, the Very-Merciful.

[1:2] Praise belongs to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds.

[1:3] the All-Merciful, the Very Merciful.

[1:4] the Master of the Day of Requital.

[1:5] You alone do we worship, and from You alone do we seek help.

[1:6] Take us on the straight path.

[1:7] the path of those on whom You have bestowed Your Grace, not of those who have incurred Your wrath, nor of those who have gone astray.

Tafsir

Overview of Surah Al Fatihah

  1. Title and Position: Surah Al Fatihah is the first chapter of the Quran. It is also referred to as “The Opener,” “The Opening,” or “Umm Al-Kitab” (The Mother of the Book).
  2. Verses and Structure: The surah consists of seven verses. It is a prayer for guidance, lordship, and mercy.
  3. Themes and Messages: This surah is considered a summary of the Quran’s essence, encapsulating its core teachings about monotheism, guidance, mercy, and the afterlife.
  4. Significance in Worship: Surah Al-Fatiha is recited in every unit of the Muslim prayer (Salah). It holds a central place in Islamic rituals and personal supplications.

Detailed Explanation

  1. Invocation of God’s Names: The surah begins with the phrase “Bismillah al-Rahman al-Rahim” (In the name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful). This invocation signifies the Islamic belief in a merciful and compassionate God.
  2. Praise and Worship: The first few verses focus on praising Allah as the Lord of all worlds, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful, and the Master of the Day of Judgment.
  3. Prayer for Guidance: The surah includes a plea for guidance to the straight path, expressing a devout desire to follow the path of those who have received God’s favor, not of those who have gone astray.
  4. Reflection of Faith and Conduct: Surah Al-Fatiha reflects the essence of Islamic faith and sets the tone for a Muslim’s personal relationship with Allah. It emphasizes dependence on God for guidance and help.

FAQs

  1. What is the importance of Surah Al Fatihah in Islam?
    • Surah Al-Fatiha is considered the essence of the Quran and is a mandatory part of daily prayers in Islam.
  2. How is Surah Al Fatihah used in Islamic worship?
    • It is recited in every unit of the Muslim prayer (Salah) and is often recited in other forms of worship and personal supplications.
  3. What does Surah Al Fatihah teach about the Islamic view of God?
    • It highlights the Islamic beliefs in God’s mercy, compassion, and lordship over the universe.
  4. Can Surah Al Fatihah be recited for personal supplications?
    • Yes, it is often recited for personal supplications and in various Islamic rituals.

Read more