At the end of Surah al-Kahf, but Hammam said: At the beginning of Surah al-Kahf.
The Book of Prayer - Travellers
Author: Sahih Muslim | Reference: Sahih Muslim 809 b
Textual Analysis
The apparent discrepancy in narrations regarding the placement of this teaching - whether at the end or beginning of Surah al-Kahf - reflects the scholarly attention to precise transmission while maintaining the essential validity of both reports.
Scholarly Reconciliation
Classical commentators note that such variations often occur when different companions recall distinct occasions of revelation or teaching. The wisdom may have been mentioned in both contexts, as Surah al-Kahf contains multiple profound lessons worthy of emphasis at both commencement and conclusion.
Legal Implications
This variation does not affect the legal ruling concerning the recommended recitation of Surah al-Kahf on Fridays, which remains established through multiple authentic narrations regardless of where specific instructions were mentioned within the surah.
Spiritual Benefit
The placement debate itself teaches us the importance of scholarly diligence while reminding that the entire Surah al-Kahf serves as protection from tribulations, particularly that of the Dajjal, making its comprehensive recitation beneficial regardless of which verses receive particular emphasis.