Abū Mas'ūd reported God’s messenger as saying, “If anyone recites the two verses at the end of sūra al-Baqara at night they will avert harm from him.” *Or will be enough for him. (Bukhārī and Muslim.)
The Excellence of the Final Verses of Sūrah al-Baqara
This noble ḥadīth from the Prophet (peace be upon him) establishes the immense virtue of reciting the last two verses of Sūrah al-Baqara (2:285-286) during the night. The phrase "they will avert harm from him" indicates divine protection from spiritual evils, calamities, and worldly afflictions. The alternative narration "will be enough for him" signifies that these verses suffice as a comprehensive protection and spiritual provision, replacing lengthy supererogatory prayers.
Scholarly Commentary on the Protective Nature
Imam al-Nawawi explains that these verses contain the most complete affirmation of faith and submission to Allah's decree. The first verse encompasses the believer's testimony to the truth of all Messengers without distinction, while the second contains the most perfect supplication for divine assistance and pardon.
Ibn Ḥajar al-'Asqalānī notes that the timing specified ("at night") is particularly significant, as night is when evils intensify and divine protection is most needed. The recitation serves as a spiritual fortress against Satan's whispers, evil eye, and worldly harms.
Theological Significance of the Verses
These concluding verses of the longest chapter in the Qur'an summarize the essential creed of Islam: belief in Allah, His angels, His books, His messengers, and the Final Day. They demonstrate the perfect relationship between the servant and the Lord - complete submission coupled with hopeful supplication.
The comprehensive nature of these verses explains their protective quality, as they embody the totality of Islamic belief and the believer's reliance upon Allah's mercy and justice.