Is any one of you incapable of reciting a third of the Qur'an in a night? They (the Companions) asked: How could one recite a third of the Qur'an (in a night)? Upon this he (the Holy Prophet) said: "'Say: He is Allah, One' (Qur'an. cxii) is equivalent to a third of the Qur'an."
The Book of Prayer - Travellers
Sahih Muslim 811 a
Hadith Commentary
This profound narration establishes the immense virtue of Surah al-Ikhlas (Chapter 112). When the Companions expressed difficulty in reciting one-third of the Qur'an nightly, the Prophet ﷺ revealed this surah's extraordinary status.
Scholars explain this equivalence in three aspects: The Qur'an primarily addresses Tawhid (Divine Unity), Ahkam (Legal Rulings), and Akhbar (Narratives). Surah al-Ikhlas comprehensively encapsulates the essence of Tawhid, thus representing a third of the Qur'an's core themes.
Al-Qurtubi notes this demonstrates Allah's mercy, granting immense reward for minimal recitation. Ibn al-Arabi emphasizes its purity from shirk, making it equal to longer portions. This teaching encourages consistent worship through accessible means, particularly during travel when full recitation may be challenging.
Practical Implementation
Recite Surah al-Ikhlas three times daily to receive the reward of completing the entire Qur'an. This practice is especially recommended during night prayers (Tahajjud) and while traveling.
Combine this recitation with other short surahs in your nightly worship to maximize spiritual benefits without burden.