Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said: O Abu' al-Mundhir, do you know the verse from the Book of Allah which, according to you, is the greatest? I said: Allah and His Apostle (ﷺ) know best. He again said: Abu'l-Mundhir, do you know the verse from the Book of Allah which, according to you, is the greatest? I said: Allah, there is no god but He, the Living, the Eternal. Thereupon he struck me on my breast and said: May knowledge be pleasant for you, O Abu'l-Mundhir!
The Book of Prayer - Travellers
Sahih Muslim 810
Hadith Commentary
This narration demonstrates the profound status of Ayat al-Kursi (The Throne Verse) from Surah al-Baqarah. The Prophet's repeated questioning of Ubayy ibn Ka'b, known by his kunya Abu'l-Mundhir, emphasizes the importance of recognizing this verse's excellence.
The Prophet's physical gesture of striking Ubayy's breast signifies approval and confirmation of correct knowledge, while his blessing "May knowledge be pleasant for you" indicates the spiritual joy that comes with proper understanding of divine revelation.
Scholars note that this hadith establishes Ayat al-Kursi as the greatest verse in the Qur'an due to its comprehensive declaration of Allah's sovereignty, eternal life, self-subsistence, and absolute knowledge - encompassing all divine attributes of majesty and perfection.
Legal and Spiritual Implications
This narration encourages Muslims to memorize and reflect upon Ayat al-Kursi, particularly for protection and spiritual elevation. The verse's recitation is recommended after every obligatory prayer and before sleep.
The exchange also illustrates the proper etiquette between teacher and student in Islamic tradition - the student's humility in deferring to superior knowledge, and the teacher's encouragement upon correct response.