The Prophet [SAW] said: "There have been revealed to me Verses the like of which has never been seen: 'Say: I seek refuge with (Allah) the Lord of the daybreak...' to the end of the Surah, and 'Say: I seek refuge with (Allah) the Lord of mankind...' to the end of the Surah."
The Book of Seeking Refuge with Allah - Sunan an-Nasa'i 5440
This narration highlights the unique excellence of the last two chapters of the Qur'an - Surah Al-Falaq (The Daybreak) and Surah An-Nas (Mankind). The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) emphasized that these surahs possess a distinctive quality unparalleled in previous revelations.
Scholarly Commentary
Imam Al-Suyuti explains that the phrase "the like of which has never been seen" indicates these surahs contain unique forms of protection and divine refuge not found in previous scriptures. They represent complete spiritual armor against all forms of evil.
Ibn Kathir notes that these surahs were revealed together and function as complementary protections - Surah Al-Falaq guarding against external evils and manifest harms, while Surah An-Nas protects against internal evils and hidden whisperings.
Al-Qurtubi emphasizes that the Prophet's special mention of these surahs demonstrates their supreme efficacy in seeking Allah's protection. They encompass comprehensive safeguarding from all creation's harms, both visible and invisible.
Practical Application
The scholars recommend reciting these surahs each morning and evening, before sleep, and when feeling distressed. They serve as spiritual fortification against magic, envy, evil eye, and all malicious intentions.
Al-Nawawi records that the righteous predecessors would teach children these surahs immediately after memorizing Al-Fatihah, recognizing their fundamental importance in a Muslim's spiritual protection.