"When Jibril was with the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ), he heard a sound from above like a door opening. Jibril, peace be upon him, looked up toward the sky and said: 'This is a gate in Heaven that has been opened, but it was never opened before." He said: "An Angel came down from it and came to the Prophet (ﷺ) and said: 'Receive the glad tidings of two lights that have been given to you and were never given to any prophet before you: The Opening of the Book (Al-Fatihah) and the last verses of Surat Al-Baqarah. You will never recite a single letter of them but you will be granted it.'"
The Book of the Commencement of the Prayer - Sunan an-Nasa'i 912
This narration from Sunan an-Nasa'i describes the unique revelation of two portions of the Quran exclusively granted to Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). The opening of a celestial gate that had never previously been opened signifies the extraordinary nature of this divine bestowal.
Scholarly Commentary on the Heavenly Descent
The sound resembling a door opening indicates the commencement of a unique divine communication. Classical scholars explain that gates in heaven open for various reasons - for accepting good deeds, for divine mercy, or for special revelations. This particular gate had remained closed until this moment, highlighting the exclusivity of what was about to be revealed.
Angel Jibril's immediate recognition of this unprecedented event demonstrates his familiarity with celestial phenomena and his role as the trusted messenger between the divine and prophetic realms.
The Two Illuminations (Nurayn)
Al-Fatihah (The Opening) is described as the essence of the Quran, containing within it the fundamental principles of Islamic theology and worship. Scholars note that no previous scripture contained a chapter with such comprehensive spiritual and legal foundations presented in such concise form.
The final verses of Surat Al-Baqarah (2:285-286) encompass the believer's affirmation of faith, acceptance of divine decree, and the most comprehensive prayer for spiritual protection and ease in religious obligations.
The Guaranteed Reward
The promise that "you will never recite a single letter of them but you will be granted it" indicates the immense spiritual value Allah places on these specific revelations. Classical commentators emphasize that this guarantee applies to both the reciter's spiritual rewards and the practical blessings derived from implementing their teachings.
This unique characteristic distinguishes these portions from other Quranic chapters, though the entire Quran remains divinely protected and reward-laden.