"The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) ordered me to recite Al-Mu'awwidhatain at the end of every Salat."
Hadith Commentary: Chapters on The Virtues of the Qur'an
Jami' at-Tirmidhi - Hadith 2903
The Command and Its Significance
This narration establishes the prophetic practice of reciting Al-Mu'awwidhatain (Surah Al-Falaq and Surah An-Nas) after every obligatory prayer. This demonstrates the comprehensive protection Islam provides for believers in both spiritual and worldly matters.
Scholarly Interpretation
Classical scholars explain that these two surahs seek refuge in Allah from all forms of evil - both apparent and hidden. Reciting them after prayer ensures the believer remains under divine protection until the next prayer, creating a continuous cycle of spiritual safeguarding.
Imam At-Tirmidhi classified this hadith as hasan (good), indicating its reliable chain of transmission and acceptance among scholars of hadith.
Practical Implementation
The wisdom behind this practice includes seeking protection from the evil of creation, harmful whispers, and spiritual vulnerabilities that may occur between prayers. It serves as a spiritual shield complementing the physical acts of worship.
Scholars recommend reciting these surahs quietly after the completion of the formal prayer and before engaging in dhikr (remembrance) and supplications.