Back to Chapters
113

Al-Falaq

The Daybreak

Verses

5

Revelation Period

Makkan

Reason for the Name

Named after the word "al-falaq" (the daybreak/dawn) mentioned in the first verse . The act of seeking refuge in the Lord of the Daybreak is central to the chapter.

Summary

This concise yet powerful chapter begins with a command from Allah to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and by extension all believers, to declare their act of seeking refuge in the "Lord of the Daybreak." The subsequent verses specify the types of evil from which protection is sought: the general evil of all created things, the particular evil associated with the darkness of night as it envelops, the evil of those who practice sorcery (symbolized by blowing on knots), and the evil of the envier when their envy manifests. It serves as a fundamental prayer for protection.

Core Message

A direct divine instruction teaching believers how to seek refuge in Allah specifically from various external evils and hidden dangers that humans may face.

Themes

  • Seeking Refuge in Allah (Istia'dha)
  • Divine Protection
  • Protection from Evil (General and Specific)
  • The Dangers of Darkness/Night
  • Protection from Sorcery/Witchcraft
  • Protection from Envy (Hasad)
  • Tawhid (Affirming Allah as the sole source of refuge)

Key Verses

As the chapter is very short, all its verses are key and form a cohesive supplication: * : "Say, 'I seek refuge in the Lord of the daybreak," - Establishes the core action and identifies Allah as the Protector. * : "From the evil of what He has created," - A comprehensive request for protection from all forms of created harm. * : "And from the evil of darkness when it settles," - Specific protection against dangers concealed by darkness or occurring at night. * : "And from the evil of the blowers in knots," - Seeking refuge from the harm intended through witchcraft and sorcery. * : "And from the evil of an envier when he envies.'" - Seeking protection from the malicious actions or ill-effects stemming from envy.

Stories

No specific narrative stories are detailed [object Object] the Surah itself. However, its revelation is often linked in Islamic tradition (Tafsir and Hadith) to an incident where magic was attempted on the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and this Surah (along with Surah An-Nas) was revealed as a remedy and protection.

Personalities

None are specifically named within the verses. The command "Qul" (Say) is addressed to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and refuge is sought in Allah ("Lord of the Daybreak"), but neither is mentioned by name [object Object] of the Surah itself.

Practical Guidance

  • Provides believers with specific words to seek Allah's protection from various harms, both seen and unseen.
  • Emphasizes reliance on Allah alone for safety and security.
  • Acknowledges the reality of external evils like sorcery and envy, guiding believers to seek spiritual protection rather than resorting to harmful or superstitious practices.
  • Encourages regular recitation, often paired with Surah An-Nas and Al-Ikhlas, as part of daily remembrance and protection (morning/evening adhkar, before sleep).
  • Teaches that refuge should be sought from all created evil , encompassing a wide range of potential harms.

Points of Reflection

  • Why is seeking refuge specifically in the "Lord of the Daybreak" significant when facing darkness and hidden evils?
  • How does recognizing the reality of envy help in fostering trust in Allah's protection and potentially guarding one's own heart from becoming envious?
  • In what daily situations can the recitation and meaning of this Surah bring comfort and reinforce reliance on Allah?

Unique Features

  • One of the Mu'awwidhatayn (the two Surahs of seeking refuge), paired with Surah An-Nas (Chapter 114).
  • Extremely concise and focused solely on the theme of seeking refuge from external evils.
  • Begins with the divine command "Qul" (Say).
  • Frequently recited for protection in Islamic practice.

Connection to Chapters

  • Forms a complementary pair with Surah An-Nas (114). While Al-Falaq focuses on seeking refuge from external threats (darkness, creation's evil, sorcery, envy), Surah An-Nas focuses on seeking refuge from internal threats (the whisperings of Satan and harmful influences from within mankind and jinn).
  • Follows Surah Al-Ikhlas (112), which establishes the absolute Oneness and Self-Sufficiency of Allah (Tawhid). Understanding Allah's unique nature in Al-Ikhlas provides the foundation for why He alone is worthy of seeking refuge in, as instructed in Al-Falaq and An-Nas.