Surah Al-Kahf was revealed in Makkah and takes its name from Ayah no. 9 in which the word “al-kahf” (the cave) occurs. It is one of five surahs which begins with Alhamdulillah (all praise is due to Allāh) and has been described by scholars as a source of guiding principles, instructive ethics and a foundation for sound belief.
The surah’s distinguishing feature is its historic narratives, sent down by the Lord of mankind to establish truth and to correct beliefs. Allah affirmed to His Messenger (peace be upon him):
“And that which we have inspired to you of the Book (i.e. the Qur’an) is the truth.” Surah Fatir 35:31.
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The first verses of the surah state the purpose of the Quran’s revelation. They are followed by the stories of the companions of the cave and the owner of two gardens, then a brief reference to the story of Adam and Iblees, the account of Prophet Musa with Khidhr, and the narrative about DhulQarnayn.
The surah ends with a conclusion containing warning, reassurance and instruction. There is emphasis throughout on Tawheed and denunciation of those who make claims without knowledge or evidence.
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Abu Sa’id Al-Khudri reported: The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “Whoever recites Surat al-Kahf on Friday will have a light between this Friday and the next.” In another narration, the Prophet said, “Whoever reads Surat al-Kahf as it was revealed, there will be a light for him on the Day of Resurrection.”
Appropriately, the surah’s narratives deal with the kinds of fitnah (trials, temptations and deceptions) that will appear with the coming of the Dajjāl near the end of time.
The Surah may be read or recited during the night before or the day of Jumu‘ah. The eve of Jumu‘ah starts from sunset on Thursday, and the day of Jumu‘ah ends at sunset. So the time for reciting it extends from sunset of Thursday to sunset of Friday.
The Prophet’s recommendations to memorize and recite this surah weekly is an indication of its importance. Among the reasons he recommended reciting al-Kahf is that it contains several reminders of the end of the world. At a time near the Last Hour, systems of unbelief and falsehood will become widespread and menacing, but believers are assured that truth and justice will ultimately prevail.
Click here to download a pdf copy of Surah Al Kahf and read it on the go.
