Names of Surah Al-Fatiha
Surah Al-Fatiha is known by several names, each reflecting its esteemed status and significance. The following are some of the most notable names:
- Mother of the Qur’an; this title is derived from authentic Hadith narrated by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
- The Seven Oft-Repeated Verses; it is said to be named so because it is recited in every unit of prayer (rak’ah).
- The Surah of Prayer.
- The Mother of the Book.
- The Healing Surah; the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) acknowledged its efficacy when his companions employed it for healing purposes.
- The Surah of Praise; named for its opening verse, which praises Allah Almighty.
Virtues of Surah Al-Fatiha
Surah Al-Fatiha is esteemed for numerous virtues, the foremost being its recognition as the greatest Surah in the Holy Qur’an. This is supported by a Hadith wherein the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) informed one of his companions that he would teach him the most significant Surah in the Qur’an, which was Al-Fatiha. Additional virtues of Surah Al-Fatiha include:
- It is regarded as the light of the Book; anyone who recites even a single letter from it will be rewarded, as indicated in prophetic traditions.
- No other Surah has been revealed like it in any of the divine scriptures, nor has any previous Prophet received a Surah comparable to it, as informed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
- Known as the Surah of Healing, it holds the potential for healing by the permission of Allah from both physical and spiritual ailments.
The Themes of Surah Al-Fatiha
Surah Al-Fatiha encompasses the profound principles of Islam as a whole. It addresses a variety of themes, including:
- A discussion of Allah’s beautiful names and exalted attributes.
- Guidance towards what leads a servant to their Creator, notably through the invocation (Ihdinas Sirat al-Mustaqim).
- A response to the misguided and those who indulge in innovations, while also clarifying the ranks of the faithful.
- References to the three types of Tawheed (monotheism).
- An emphasis on the necessity of devoting all acts of worship solely to Allah Almighty.