Aifa‘ b. ‘Abd al-Kilā‘ī told of a man who asked God’s messenger which sūra of the Qur’ān was greatest and was told that it is “Say, He is God, One.” He asked which verse of the Qur’ān was greatest and was told that it is the Throne Verse, “God, there is no god but He, the Living, he Eternal.” He asked God’s prophet which verse he would like to bring good to him and his people and was told, ‘‘The end of sūra al-Baqara, for it is one of the treasures of God’s mercy from under His Throne which He gave to this people, and there is no good in this world and the next which it does not include.” Dārimī transmitted it.
The Excellence of Sūrat al-Ikhlāṣ
The Prophet's designation of "Say, He is God, One" (Sūrat al-Ikhlāṣ) as the greatest sūra affirms its profound theological weight. This sūra encapsulates the essence of divine unity (tawḥīd), serving as a comprehensive declaration of Allāh's absolute oneness, uniqueness, and transcendence. Its merit lies in equaling one-third of the Qur'ān in reward, as established in authentic narrations, for it purifies the believer's creed from all forms of shirk.
The Supremacy of the Throne Verse
Āyat al-Kursī (Qur'ān 2:255) being honored as the greatest verse stems from its magnificent description of Allāh's sovereignty, knowledge, and eternal dominion. It affirms His perfect attributes while negating any deficiency, making it a fortress against evil. The verse's recitation invokes divine protection, as it encompasses the names and qualities that manifest His absolute authority over creation.
The Final Verses of Sūrat al-Baqara
The concluding verses of Sūrat al-Baqara (2:285-286) are characterized as a treasure from beneath the Divine Throne, containing comprehensive blessings for worldly and hereafter success. They encapsulate the believer's affirmation of faith, acceptance of divine decree, and plea for eased obligations—merging doctrine with practical supplication. Their recitation at night suffices as protection against evil, demonstrating their spiritual efficacy.