Surah Al-Kahf is a highly significant surah(chapter) in the Quran, consisting of 110 verses and the 18th surah.
The surah covers various topics, including the tale of the people of the cave, the narrative of Prophet Moses, peace be upon him, Khidr, peace be upon him, the story of Prophet Dhul-Qarnayn, and the story of the wealthy and poor neighbors.
This surah offers many vital teachings and stories, emphasizing the significance of faith, patience, and the power of Allah Almighty.
Surah Al-Kahf is also recognized for its protective abilities. The Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, said that whoever reads Surah Al-Kahf on Friday would receive a light from Allah that would guide them from one Friday to the next.
When to Read Surah Al-Kahf on Friday?
Surah Al-Kahf can be read either during the night (The night of Jumu’ah is the night that precedes the day of Jumu’ah and not the one that supersedes it) or on the day of Jumu’ah.
The night of Jumu’ah begins at sunset on Thursday, and the day of Jumu’ah ends at sunset on Friday. Therefore, one can read this surah from sunset on Thursday until sunset on Friday.
Al-Barā’ ibn ‘Āzib, may Allah be pleased with him, reported: While a man was reciting Surah al-Kahf, with his horse tied with two ropes beside him, a cloud overshadowed him.
As it began to come nearer and nearer, the horse started to trample violently. In the morning, the man went to the Prophet, peace be upon him, and narrated the incident. He said: “That was tranquility which descended by virtue of the Qur’an’s recitation.”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim]
Importance of Surah Al-Kahf
Surah Al-Kahf is the 18th Surah of the Quran, and it tells the story of the believers of ancient times who, upon hearing the message of truth, accepted it.
Yet, they were to face retribution from their society, so they fled and sought protection in a cave where Allah Almighty gave them a sleep that lasted for centuries. By then, their entire city had converted to Islam.
Through this Surah, we learn that those who believe in Allah and ask for His protection are given protection unmatched by anything else.
The Virtues of Surah Al-Kahf
- Protection From the Evil Of Dajjal
Al Dajjal(anti-Christ) is well-known for the chaos and destruction he will bring to humanity. Sadly, many who lack faith may be swayed by his influence.
Those who remain steadfast in their belief may turn to Allah Almighty for protection from his destruction.
Reciting the first and last ten verses of Surah Al-Kahf offer powerful protection against Dajjal’s influence – a crucial benefit for those seeking to stay safe and guided.
Abu Darda’ reported Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, as saying: “If anyone learns by heart the first ten verses of the Surah Al-Kahf, he will be protected from the Dajjal.”
(Muslim)
- Strengthens Your Faith
Surah Al-Kahf is beneficial in strengthening faith. It contains stories highlighting the importance of strong faith and how following Allah’s path leads to His help.
Understanding the stories provides wisdom.
The surah includes tales of:
- The Story of the people of the cave – A Trial of Faith.
- The Story of the Man Who Owns Two Gardens – A Trial of Wealth.
- The Story of Prophet Moses and Al-Khidr – A Trail of Knowledge.
- The Story of the Dhul Qarnayn (A Righteous King) – A Trial of Power.
- Light for the Muslims
Shine for him from the light between the two Fridays.” And this light is cast by God in the reader’s heart, or in his sight, or insight, or in all his conditions, or it is a light that ascends for him with his deeds to the sky, or the angels watch him.
Or a light will shine for him in the Hereafter, in addition to others on the Day of Resurrection, and this light will remain in this sense throughout the week from Friday to Friday.
Abu Sa’id al-Khudri reported: The Prophet, peace be upon him, said, “Whoever recites Surah Al-Kahf on Friday, a light will shine for him between this Friday and the next.”
[al-Sunan al-Kubra lil-Bayhaqi]
- Way Towards Forgiveness
As humans, we are all prone to making mistakes and imperfections. However, we must learn from our errors and seek forgiveness from Allah.
Allah is Most Merciful, and He forgives those who sincerely repent and strive never to repeat their mistakes.
Our ultimate purpose in this world is to seek Allah’s pleasure, which should be our top priority.
Friday is an opportune time to seek forgiveness from Allah by reciting Surah Al-Kahf and asking for forgiveness for all our wrongdoings.
Reading Surah Al-Kahf on Friday is a virtuous act that has many benefits. It is a means of protection from the trials and tribulations of the Dajjal, it helps to increase one’s faith, and it can help to fulfill one’s wishes and desires.
The surah is one of the most significant surahs in the Quran and contains many important lessons and stories for Muslims.
