‘Ā’isha said that the Prophet sent a man in charge of an expedition and he would recite for his companions during their prayer, finishing with “Say, He is God, One.” When they returned they mentioned that to the Prophet, and he told them to ask him why he did that. They asked him and he replied, “Because it is a description of the Compassionate One, and I like to recite it.” Then the Prophet said, “Tell him that God loves him.” (Bukhārī and Muslim.)
The Excellence of Sūrat al-Ikhlāṣ
This narration from the Mother of Believers 'Ā'isha (may Allah be pleased with her) demonstrates the profound status of Sūrat al-Ikhlāṣ (Chapter 112) in Islamic tradition. The Companion's practice of concluding prayer with this chapter exclusively indicates its theological weight.
The Companion's justification—"Because it is a description of the Compassionate One"—reveals this sūrah's essence as pure tawḥīd (divine unity). It comprehensively defines Allah's unique attributes: His oneness (Aḥad), eternal self-sufficiency (al-Ṣamad), and transcendence beyond progeny and origin.
Divine Love Through Recitation
The Prophet's response "Tell him that God loves him" establishes a direct connection between loving this sūrah and attaining divine love. This aligns with the principle that Allah loves those who love His attributes, and Sūrat al-Ikhlāṣ is the quintessential depiction of His essence.
Scholars note this hadith encourages contemplation (tadabbur) during prayer. The Companion didn't merely recite words but internalized their meaning, transforming ritual into intimate discourse with the Divine.
Juridical Considerations
While this narration praises exclusive recitation of Sūrat al-Ikhlāṣ, jurists maintain that varying Quranic recitation in obligatory prayers remains superior, following the Prophet's general practice. However, the incident validates the permissibility of repeating this sūrah due to its unique merits.
The Prophet's gentle inquiry methodology—asking the Companion to explain his reasoning rather than immediate correction—exemplifies Islamic pedagogy, nurturing understanding over mere instruction.