The Book of the Commencement of the Prayer

Sunan an-Nasa'i - Hadith Reference: Sunan an-Nasa'i 996

Hadith Text

The Prophet (ﷺ) said: "Say: He is Allah, (the) One" is one-third of the Quran."

Commentary on the Excellence of Surah al-Ikhlas

This noble hadith establishes the immense virtue of Surah al-Ikhlas (Chapter 112). The declaration that it equals one-third of the Quran in reward demonstrates its profound theological weight. Scholars explain that the Quran's essence comprises three fundamental themes: Tawhid (Divine Unity), Ahkam (Legal Rulings), and Qasas (Narratives). Surah al-Ikhlas comprehensively encapsulates the doctrine of Tawhid - Allah's absolute Oneness, transcendence, and perfection - thus representing a third of the Quran's core message.

Scholarly Interpretation

Imam al-Qurtubi states: "This chapter contains the pure essence of Divine Unity, free from any anthropomorphism or comparison. Its four verses dismantle all false beliefs about Allah's nature."

Ibn Kathir comments: "The Prophet's statement indicates that reciting Surah al-Ikhlas brings reward equivalent to reciting one-third of the entire Quran, though it does not replace the obligatory recitation in prayer."

Practical Implications

This hadith encourages frequent recitation of Surah al-Ikhlas in prayers, dhikr, and daily worship. Many scholars recommend combining it with Surahs al-Falaq and an-Nas for comprehensive spiritual protection, as these three surahs together encompass the fundamental aspects of Islamic creed.