If anyone recites the two verses at the end of Surah al-Baqara at night, they would suffice for him 'Abd al-Rahman said: I met Abu Mas'ud and he was circumambulating the House (of Allah) and asked him about this (tradition) and he narrated it to me from the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ).
The Book of Prayer - Travellers
Sahih Muslim 808 a
Hadith Commentary
This noble hadith from the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) concerns the immense virtue of reciting the final two verses of Surah al-Baqarah (2:285-286) during the night. The phrase "they would suffice for him" carries multiple interpretations according to classical scholars.
Imam al-Nawawi explains that this sufficiency may refer to protection from evil throughout the night, or that these verses suffice as a substitute for the night prayer (Tahajjud), or that they provide sufficient spiritual reward equivalent to lengthy worship. Some scholars hold that they suffice as a means of seeking Allah's protection from Satan and worldly harms.
The chain of narration through Abu Mas'ud al-Ansari demonstrates the careful preservation of this tradition, as Abd al-Rahman verified it directly during tawaf. This shows the Companions' diligence in confirming prophetic teachings.
The two verses contain profound meanings - the first affirms complete faith in Allah and His Messenger, while the second comprises a comprehensive prayer seeking Allah's mercy, forgiveness, and protection from unbearable burdens. Their recitation thus encompasses both declaration of faith and supplication, making them particularly blessed for nighttime devotion when prayers are most readily accepted.