"I came to the Messenger of Allah [SAW] while he was riding, and I put my hand on his foot and said: 'Teach me Surah Hud, teach me Surah Yusuf. He said: 'You will never recite anything more precious before Allah, the Mighty and Sublime, than: 'Say: I seek refuge with (Allah) the Lord of the daybreak.'"
The Book of Seeking Refuge with Allah
Sunan an-Nasa'i - Hadith 5439
Hadith Text
"I came to the Messenger of Allah [SAW] while he was riding, and I put my hand on his foot and said: 'Teach me Surah Hud, teach me Surah Yusuf.' He said: 'You will never recite anything more precious before Allah, the Mighty and Sublime, than: 'Say: I seek refuge with (Allah) the Lord of the daybreak.'"
Scholarly Commentary
This narration demonstrates the profound status of Surah al-Falaq (Chapter 113) in Islamic tradition. When the companion sought to learn lengthy chapters containing profound narratives, the Prophet redirected him to this concise yet powerful chapter of seeking refuge.
The wisdom behind this preference lies in the comprehensive protection these "Mu'awwidhat" (chapters of refuge) provide against all forms of evil - both apparent and hidden. While Surah Hud and Yusuf contain valuable lessons, the immediate spiritual protection offered by Surah al-Falaq holds unique precedence in daily spiritual practice.
Classical scholars note that the Prophet's emphasis on these chapters of refuge indicates their superiority in safeguarding the believer's faith, worldly affairs, and ultimate standing before Allah. Their brevity facilitates frequent recitation, ensuring constant divine protection.
The physical act of touching the Prophet's foot while he was mounted shows the companion's earnest desire for knowledge and the Prophet's accessibility despite his elevated status.
Legal and Spiritual Rulings
Reciting the Mu'awwidhat (Surah al-Falaq and an-Nas) is recommended daily, particularly after prescribed prayers and before sleeping.
These chapters serve as protection against black magic, evil eye, harmful creatures, and all spiritual afflictions.
The hadith establishes that concise chapters containing essential protection can sometimes hold greater merit than lengthy narratives, depending on the context and need.