SURAH AL-KAHF (A BLESSED READING)

Quran is full of knowledge and guidance for all those of will read it for the sake of their betterment and reformation beside to gain Sawab. Each and every Surah of the Quran has a purpose and has benefits attached to it. Today I will take up SURRAH AL_KAHF and will explore the treasures hidden in this surah. Al-Kahf is a light that illuminates the path of guidance for whoever reads it, as it stops Muslims from disobedience and sins, and guides them to the path of goodness and righteousness. Al-Kahf (Arabic: الكهف, Al-Kahf; meaning: The Cave) is the 18th chapter (sūrah) of the Quran. Regarding the timing and contextual background of the revelation (asbāb al-nuzūl), it is an earlier "Meccan surah", which means it was revealed in Mecca, instead of Medina.

Surah Al-Kahf contains several stories and parables with valuable lessons and wisdom. In this blog, I will try to give an overview of what is found in Surah Al-Kahf. Surah Kahaf Alislam contains one hundred and ten verses, all of which were revealed in Mecca, except verse 28. In this holy Surah, the story of the Companions of the Cave (Kahf), the story of Moses and Khidr (a.s), the story of Zulqarnayn, and some awakening materials about Origin and End have been discussed. Let’s explore them one by one:

1. The People of the Cave: This story tells of a group of young believers who sought refuge in a cave to escape religious persecution. Allah granted them a miraculous sleep that lasted for centuries. It highlights the importance of faith and trust in Allah.

2. The Story of Moses and Khidr: Surah Al-Kahf contains the story of Prophet Moses (Musa) and Khidr, a righteous servant of Allah. Moses accompanies Khidr on a journey during which Khidr's actions, which seem puzzling to Moses, are meant to teach lessons about divine wisdom and the knowledge of Allah.

3. The Story of Dhul-Qarnayn: This narrative tells of a powerful and just ruler named Dhul-Qarnayn who traveled extensively and dealt justly with various communities. It underscores the importance of justice and righteousness in leadership.

4. The Parable of the Two Garden Owners: This parable contrasts the attitudes of two garden owners, one of whom is arrogant and ungrateful, while the other acknowledges Allah's blessings. It serves as a lesson in humility and gratitude.

5. The Concept of Resurrection and the Afterlife: Surah Al-Kahf also addresses the concept of the Day of Judgment, emphasizing the importance of deeds and accountability in the Hereafter.

This Surah was revealed in response to certain questions posed by the Quraysh tribe of Makkah to test the Prophet's knowledge and prophethood. The Surah provides answers to those questions and offers guidance on various aspects of faith and conduct.

Muslims recite this Surah at specific times. In Islam Importance associated with Surah has several reasons:

1. On Fridays (Jumu'ah): It is a recommended practice to recite Surah Al-Kahf on Fridays. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged this tradition, and it is believed to bring blessings for the week ahead.

2. Guidance and Wisdom: Surah Al-Kahf contains stories and parables that offer valuable lessons and guidance for Muslims.

2. Protection from Dajjal: It is believed that reciting the first ten and last ten verses of Surah Al-Kahf can provide protection from the trials and tribulations associated with Dajjal, a false messianic figure in Islamic eschatology.

3. The Day of Jumu'ah (Friday): It is recommended to recite Surah Al-Kahf on Fridays as the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged this practice. Doing so is believed to bring blessings and enlightenment for the week ahead.

4. Reflection and Spiritual Growth: Reading and pondering over the verses of Surah Al-Kahf can promote self-reflection and spiritual growth. It encourages believers to seek knowledge, patience, and reliance on Allah.

5. Contemporary Relevance: The themes addressed in Surah Al-Kahf, such as the importance of faith, standing up for righteousness, and the transient nature of worldly wealth, are relevant to contemporary life and the challenges faced.

6. *Gaining Knowledge and Wisdom: Surah Al-Kahf contains stories and parables that impart valuable lessons and wisdom. Muslims may recite it to reflect upon these stories and apply their teachings to their lives.

5. Throughout the Year: While it is particularly emphasized on Fridays, Muslims may recite Surah Al-Kahf at any time during the year when they seek its benefits, guidance, or protection

It's important to note that while reciting Surah Al-Kahf is a recommended practice, it should be done with understanding and reflection on its meanings and teachings, rather than as a mere ritual. Additionally, the intention behind reciting it should be sincere, seeking Allah's guidance and blessings.

Benefits of Reading & Reciting Surah Kahf

1- Prophet PBUH recommended to read

We must follow the work and morals of the Prophet (PBUH) as he asks us for what he (peace and blessings be upon him) was. That is why we should consider it Sunnah (and we should follow the paths of the Companions, Caliphs, and so on for our benefit

“Whoever recites Surah Kahf first and foremost he will be enlightened”. Whoever will complete recite it. There will be light between the earth and the sky for him”.

2- Higher Ranks in Jannah for Hafiz

We reach higher and higher ranks in reward and Jannah the more we memorize. Read and ascend and increase your rewards with every verse.

3- Learning great teachings of Islam

The three fundamentals of Islam have been combined in the first ten verses by God Almighty. The unity of God was mentioned in the fourth and fifth verses of this surah, and the revelation to the Prophet PBUH was mentioned in the first verse, and Allah talks about the reward in the second and third verses. To denote the fear that does not allow us to procrastinate and hope to make us walk for the better.

4- Increasing your Iman “Faith.”

The first ten verses help you develop a strong relationship with the Qur’an because there is no possibility of deviation (as stated in the first and second verses). We have something to hold on to before the war of Dajjal.

5- Protection from Trial (Fitnah) of Dajjal

Undoubtedly, the Trial of Dajjal is one of the hardest Fitnah for Ummah. But our beloved Prophet (PBUH) has already given us the key to be protected from Dajjal. We should hasten to memorize the first 10 verses of Surah Kahf.

The Prophet (PBUH) said:

“If anyone learns by heart the first 10 verses of the Surah Al Kahf, he will be protected from the Dajjal.”

“Whoever recites the last ten verses of Surah Al-Kahf he will be safe from the temptation of Dajjal”.

6- Peace and tranquility to its reciter

As Narrated by Al-Bara’ bin ‘Azib: A man recited Surah Al Kahf (in his prayer) and in the house, there was a (riding) animal that got frightened and started jumping. The man finished his prayer with Taslim but behold! A mist or a cloud hovered over him. He informed the Prophet (PBUH) of that, and the Prophet (PBUH) said:

“O so-and-so! Recite, for the (mist or cloud) was a sign of peace descending for the recitation of the Quran.”

7- Guidance to the believer

“Whoever reads Surah Kahf upon the arrival of Jummah (Friday) will have a light that will sparkle from him starting with one Friday and then onto the next.” It will make the reader stand out from the crowd and make him worthy of the countless blessings and rewards until next Friday.

8- Light in face & heart

“Whoever reads Surah Al Kahf on the night of Jummah, will have a light that will stretch between him and the Kabah.”

“Whoever recites Surah Al-Kahf on Friday on the Day of Judgement there will be light for him in the heavens and the earth and the sins between the two Fridays will be forgiven”.

In short reading and reciting this surah brings many virtues but is not like memorizing it. Hifz this Surah brings the Muslim unmatched virtues. The stories of Surat Al-Kahf teach us that Allah is All-Knowing and we should not be proud of His blessings. Our knowledge should make us humble, and we should always use it for good. It is Allah who provides us with all strength. Reciting Surat Al Kahf on Friday is highly desirable and is a general practice for Muslims. “If anyone learns by heart the first ten verses of Surat Al-Kahf, he will be protected from the Antichrist.”

BY: OVAIS ASAD KHAN