When I was praying in the mosque the Prophet called me and I did not answer him, but I went to him afterwards and explained that I had been praying, whereupon he asked me whether God had not said, “Respond to God and to the messenger when He calls you,” (Qur’ān, 8:24) adding, “Let me teach you the greatest sūra in the Qur’ān before you leave the mosque.” He then took me by the hand, and when we were about to go out I reminded him of saying he would teach me the greatest sūra in the Qur’ān. He said, “It is, ‘Praise be to God, the Lord of the universe’, (Qur'ān,1) which is the seven oft-repeated verses and the mighty Qur’ān’ (Qur’ān, 15:87) which has been brought to me.” Bukhārī transmitted it.
The Excellent Qualities of the Qur'an - Mishkat al-Masabih 2118
This narration from Abu Sa'id al-Khudri demonstrates the profound status of Surah al-Fatihah in Islamic tradition. The Prophet's emphasis on responding immediately to his call, supported by Quranic injunction (8:24), establishes the principle of prioritizing religious instruction.
Excellence of Surah al-Fatihah
The Prophet designated Surah al-Fatihah as "the greatest surah" - a designation rooted in its comprehensive nature containing praise, worship, and supplication. Its title "Sab' al-Mathani" (the seven oft-repeated verses) from Quran 15:87 indicates its perpetual recitation in daily prayers.
Scholars note that al-Fatihah serves as the essence of the Quran, containing the fundamental principles of Islamic creed, law, and spirituality. Its position at the Quran's beginning signifies its role as the opening to divine guidance.
Pedagogical Methodology
The Prophet's physical act of taking the companion's hand demonstrates the importance of personal connection in religious education. His deliberate delay in instruction until reminded teaches the value of student initiative and eagerness in seeking knowledge.
This incident establishes the mosque as not merely a place of prayer but as a center for Quranic learning and spiritual advancement, where the most valuable knowledge is transmitted.