Day 9

By Shofi Ahmed 

A Mandatory Prayer And More

Before we see a mind map for academic teachings of Surah Fathiha up next In Shaa Allah. Let’s explore more Surah Fathiha as a mandatory prayer and more. Surah Fathiha is the first chapter of the Holy Quran and is considered one of the most important chapters in the Islamic faith. It serves as a prayer that is recited during every salah (prayer), making it a fundamental part of a Muslim’s daily routine.

The surah’s significance goes beyond its role as a mandatory prayer. It also provides guidance and direction on how to live a balanced and successful life, both spiritually and materially. The verse “The path of those upon whom You have bestowed favour, not of those who have evoked [Your] anger or of those who are astray” (1:7) highlights the importance of seeking Allah SWT’s guidance in all matters of life, including personal, family, and social.

Nonetheless, if you are wondering, we have good reasons to do so, who are these lucky bunch of people who are favoured. Got a golden mention in the Qur’an. We can find it from the Qur’an. One of the methods for tafsir (interpretation) of the Qur’an to understand its verses is to refer to the Qur’an itself, as our traditions state that, “parts of the Qur’an explain the other parts”. Thus to understand what Ni’ma (Bounty) or favour means in this verse, we refer to the Qur’an itself. Allah (swt) in chapter 4, verse 69 of the Noble Qur’an explains who the people whom He has bestowed His favour upon are:

“And whoever obeys Allah and the Messenger – those will be with the ones upon whom Allah has bestowed favour of the prophets, the steadfast affirmers of truth, those who witness and the righteous. And excellent are those as companions”. (Quran, 4:69).

Let’s eye onto our academic slides. While it is important to pursue one’s professional goals and engage in leisure activities, these aspects of life should not overshadow personal growth, familial relationships, and social connections. Reciting Surah Fathiha can serve as a reminder to maintain a balance between these areas of life and to seek Allah SWT’s guidance in doing so.

Moreover, the surah encourages individuals to strive for personal growth and to avoid straying from the straight and balanced path. This applies not only to spiritual matters but also to professional and personal decision-making. Seeking Allah SWT’s guidance can help individuals make well-informed and morally sound choices that lead to success in both spiritual and material aspects of life.

Surah Fathiha is thus a mandatory prayer and more. It’s a most valuable source of guidance and direction for leading a balanced and successful life. It reminds us to seek Allah SWT’s guidance in all areas of life and to strive for personal growth while maintaining a balance between personal, familial, and social aspects of life. By doing so, individuals can attain spiritual and material growth and live a fulfilling life.