Surah Fatiha 1.15

Surah al-Fatihah (The Opening)

Surah al-Fatihah consists of seven verses and is recognized as both "makki" and "madani," indicating its revelation in both Makkah and Madinah.

The commentary from Majma’ul Bayan cites that the Holy Prophet Muhammad (S) remarked that one who recites this Surah will receive the reward equivalent to two-thirds of the entire Qur’an, in addition to the merit of giving charity to all believing men and women across the globe.

One of the companions of the Holy Prophet (S) recounts an occasion when he recited this Surah in the Prophet's presence. The Prophet remarked, “By Him in whose hand is my soul, a revelation comparable to this has not been included in the Taurat (Torah), Injeel (Bible), Zabur (Psalms), or even the Qur’an itself.”

During a dialogue with Jabir ibn Abdallah Ansari, the Holy Prophet (S) inquired if he should teach him a Surah unmatched by any other in the Qur’an. Jabir eagerly accepted, leading the Prophet to impart Surah al-Fatihah. The Prophet further asked Jabir if he wished to learn more about this Surah. Jabir affirmed his interest, to which the Prophet declared, “It (Surah al-Fatihah) serves as a remedy for every ailment except death.”

Imam Abu Abdillah Ja’far as-Sadiq (a.s.) stated that if an individual cannot be healed by Surah al-Fatihah, then no remedy can help them. This narration also mentions that reciting this Surah seventy times over any painful part of the body will undoubtedly alleviate the pain. The potency of this Surah is such that it is claimed that reciting it seventy times over a deceased body could lead to unexpected signs of life.

Surah al-Fatihah addresses both physical and spiritual ailments, and it is essential for completing daily prayers. Regarded as a significant blessing bestowed by Allah (S.w.T.) through the Holy Prophet Muhammad (S), it stands unparalleled among previous revelations. It is often referred to as ‘Ummul Kitab’ and ‘Sab’a mathani’ in recognition of its profound importance.