God’s messenger asked, “Abul Mundhir (this is Ubayy’s Kunya), do you know which verse of God’s Book that you have is greatest?” I replied, “God and His messenger know best.” He repeated his question and I said, “God, there is no god but He, the Living, the Eternal.” Thereupon he struck me on the breast and said, “May knowledge be pleasant for you, Abul Mundhir!” Muslim transmitted it.
The Excellence of Ayat al-Kursi
This narration from Sahih Muslim, documented in Mishkat al-Masabih 2122, demonstrates the supreme status of Ayat al-Kursi (The Throne Verse) within the Qur'an. The Prophet's specific inquiry to Ubayy ibn Ka'b - addressing him by his honorable kunya "Abul Mundhir" - indicates the importance of this teaching moment.
Scholarly Commentary on the Dialogue
The Prophet's repetition of the question emphasizes the significance of the matter, allowing Ubayy ibn Ka'b to contemplate deeply before answering. Ubayy's response "God and His messenger know best" exemplifies proper adab (etiquette) when speaking to the Messenger of Allah.
When Ubayy correctly identified Ayat al-Kursi (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:255), the Prophet's physical gesture of striking his breast coupled with the supplication "May knowledge be pleasant for you" signifies the validation of correct understanding and the blessing conferred upon the companion.
Theological Significance of Ayat al-Kursi
This verse is considered greatest because it contains the most comprehensive description of Allah's attributes: His absolute oneness (Tawhid), eternal life (Qayyum), divine knowledge encompassing all creation, and His majestic sovereignty over the heavens and earth.
Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Qurtubi explain that this verse encapsulates the essence of divine lordship (Rububiyyah) and serves as protection against evil, making it the most excellent verse in the Qur'an according to this authentic hadith.