I met Abu Mas'ud near the House (Ka'ba) and said to him: A hadith has been conveyed to me on your authority about the two (concluding verses of Surah al-Baqara. He said: Yes. The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) (in fact) said: Anyone who recites the two verses at the end of Surah al-Baqara at night, they would suffice for him.
The Book of Prayer - Travellers
Author: Sahih Muslim | Hadith Reference: Sahih Muslim 807 a
Hadith Text
I met Abu Mas'ud near the House (Ka'ba) and said to him: A hadith has been conveyed to me on your authority about the two (concluding verses of Surah al-Baqara. He said: Yes. The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) (in fact) said: Anyone who recites the two verses at the end of Surah al-Baqara at night, they would suffice for him.
Commentary
This noble hadith establishes the immense virtue of reciting the final two verses of Surah al-Baqara (2:285-286) during the night. The phrase "they would suffice for him" carries multiple interpretations according to classical scholars. Some explain it as protection from evil and harm throughout the night, while others understand it as being sufficient reward equivalent to performing night prayers. Imam Nawawi states these verses contain comprehensive declarations of faith, submission to Allah's will, and supplications for forgiveness and mercy.
The specification of "at night" indicates the special spiritual atmosphere of nighttime when distractions diminish and the heart becomes more receptive to divine remembrance. Scholars note that this practice combines both recitation of Quran and remembrance of Allah, making it particularly potent. The chain of transmission through Abu Mas'ud al-Ansari demonstrates the Companions' meticulous preservation and dissemination of Prophetic teachings, even in sacred spaces like the Ka'ba precincts.
Legal Rulings
The majority of scholars consider this practice recommended (mustahabb) rather than obligatory. It is particularly emphasized for travelers due to increased vulnerabilities during journeys. Hanafi and Shafi'i jurists highlight that these verses serve as protection (ḥifẓ) and spiritual provision (qūt) for the believer. Maliki scholars note that while the text mentions "night," the virtue extends to any time of need or vulnerability.
Spiritual Benefits
These concluding verses encapsulate the essence of Islamic creed: belief in Allah's oneness, acceptance of divine decree, and seeking forgiveness for shortcomings. Their recitation strengthens faith, provides spiritual illumination, and connects the believer directly with the Quran's comprehensive message. The promise of "sufficiency" indicates both worldly protection and otherworldly reward, making this practice a means of attaining comprehensive divine care.