The Book of Seeking Refuge with Allah

Sunan an-Nasa'i - Hadith 5431

Hadith Text

"The Messenger of Allah [SAW] said to me: 'Say.' I said: 'What should I say?' He said: 'Say: He is Allah (the) One,' 'Say: I seek refuge with (Allah) the Lord of the daybreak,' 'Say: I seek refuge with (Allah) the Lord of mankind.' The Messenger of Allah [SAW] recited them, then he said: 'The people have never recited anything like them, or the people have never sought refuge (with Allah) by means of anything like them.'"

Scholarly Commentary

This noble hadith from Sunan an-Nasa'i demonstrates the profound excellence of Surah al-Ikhlas (The Unity), Surah al-Falaq (The Daybreak), and Surah an-Nas (Mankind). The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) specifically instructed the recitation of these three chapters, indicating their combined spiritual power and protection.

The declaration "He is Allah, the One" establishes the foundation of Tawhid (Divine Unity), while the two chapters of refuge provide comprehensive protection from both visible and invisible harms. The Prophet's statement that "people have never recited anything like them" signifies the unique status of these surahs in the entire history of divine revelation.

Classical scholars explain that Surah al-Falaq protects against external evils and physical harms, while Surah an-Nas safeguards against internal spiritual diseases and whisperings. Together with Surah al-Ikhlas, they form a complete spiritual fortress for the believer, encompassing correct belief and comprehensive protection from all forms of evil.

Practical Implementation

The pious predecessors would recite these three surahs every morning and evening as part of their daily remembrances (adhkar). They are particularly recommended before sleeping and during times of distress or fear.

Ibn al-Qayyim (may Allah have mercy on him) noted that these surahs contain the most complete forms of seeking refuge available to mankind, encompassing protection from all creations and their potential harms.