While we were on one of our journeys, we dismounted at a place where a slave girl came and said, "The chief of this tribe has been stung by a scorpion and our men are not present; is there anybody among you who can treat him (by reciting something)?" Then one of our men went along with her though we did not think that he knew any such treatment. But he treated the chief by reciting something, and the sick man recovered whereupon he gave him thirty sheep and gave us milk to drink (as a reward). When he returned, we asked our friend, "Did you know how to treat with the recitation of something?" He said, "No, but I treated him only with the recitation of the Mother of the Book (i.e., Al-Fatiha)." We said, "Do not say anything (about it) till we reach or ask the Prophet (ﷺ) so when we reached Medina, we mentioned that to the Prophet (in order to know whether the sheep which we had taken were lawful to take or not). The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "How did he come to know that it (Al-Fatiha) could be used for treatment? Distribute your reward and assign for me one share thereof as well."
Virtues of the Qur'an - Sahih al-Bukhari 5007
This narration from Sahih al-Bukhari demonstrates the miraculous healing properties of Surah al-Fatihah and establishes important legal principles regarding ruqyah (Qur'anic healing).
The Incident and Its Significance
The companions were traveling when a slave girl approached seeking help for her chief who was stung by a scorpion. One companion performed ruqyah with al-Fatihah without prior knowledge of its efficacy for healing.
The successful treatment demonstrates that al-Fatihah possesses inherent barakah (blessing) and healing power, confirming its title "The Mother of the Book" as containing comprehensive benefits.
Legal Rulings Derived
The Prophet's question "How did he know it could be used for treatment?" indicates that using Qur'an for healing is permissible but should be based on proper knowledge.
The command to distribute the reward (thirty sheep) shows the permissibility of accepting payment for ruqyah using Qur'anic verses, provided the intention is pure.
The Prophet's request for a share establishes that religious scholars and guides are entitled to a portion of such earnings, recognizing their spiritual guidance.
Scholarly Commentary
Classical scholars note that this hadith proves the superiority of al-Fatihah over all other chapters, as it sufficed for a severe condition like scorpion sting.
Imam al-Qurtubi comments that the companion's uncertainty about the permissibility shows the companions' scrupulousness in religious matters.
Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani explains that the Prophet's approval after the fact indicates the permissibility of using Qur'an for healing was established through this incident.