Ayatul Kursi

Ayatul Kursi: The Throne Verse of the Quran

Introduction

Ayatul Kursi, also known as the Throne Verse, is one of the most powerful and significant verses in the Holy Quran. It is found in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:255) and is highly revered in Islamic teachings due to its deep meaning, spiritual benefits, and immense protection. This verse describes the greatness of Allah, His sovereignty over the heavens and the earth, and His ultimate authority over all creation.

Arabic Text of Ayatul Kursi

اللَّهُ لَا إِلَٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ الْحَيُّ الْقَيُّومُ ۚ لَا تَأْخُذُهُ سِنَةٌ وَلَا نَوْمٌ ۚ لَهُ مَا فِي السَّمَاوَاتِ وَمَا فِي الْأَرْضِ ۗ مَنْ ذَا الَّذِي يَشْفَعُ عِندَهُ إِلَّا بِإِذْنِهِ ۚ يَعْلَمُ مَا بَيْنَ أَيْدِيهِمْ وَمَا خَلْفَهُمْ ۖ وَلَا يُحِيطُونَ بِشَيْءٍ مِنْ عِلْمِهِ إِلَّا بِمَا شَاءَ ۚ وَسِعَ كُرْسِيُّهُ السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالْأَرْضَ ۚ وَلَا يَئُودُهُ حِفْظُهُمَا ۚ وَهُوَ الْعَلِيُّ الْعَظِيمُ

English Translation

Allah! There is no deity except Him, the Ever-Living, the Sustainer of [all] existence. Neither drowsiness overtakes Him nor sleep. To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth. Who is it that can intercede with Him except by His permission? He knows what is before them and what will be after them, and they encompass not a thing of His knowledge except for what He wills. His Kursi (Throne) extends over the heavens and the earth, and their preservation tires Him not. And He is the Most High, the Most Great.

Explanation of Ayatul Kursi

Ayatul Kursi beautifully summarizes the essence of Tawheed (Oneness of Allah) and His absolute dominion over the universe. Let's break it down:

Allah's Oneness and Supremacy:

The verse begins by reaffirming that Allah alone is worthy of worship. There is no deity besides Him, emphasizing monotheism.

Ever-Living and Sustainer:

Allah is Al-Hayy (The Ever-Living) and Al-Qayyum (The Self-Sustaining), meaning He is eternal and does not depend on anyone or anything.

No Sleep or Fatigue:

Unlike humans, Allah does not experience tiredness, drowsiness, or sleep. His power is beyond limitations.

Absolute Ownership:

Everything in the heavens and the earth belongs to Allah. He is the ultimate Owner and Controller.

No Intercession Without Permission:

No one can intercede before Allah unless He grants permission. This emphasizes Allah’s authority over judgment.

His Infinite Knowledge:

Allah’s knowledge encompasses everything - past, present, and future. Nothing is hidden from Him.

His Kursi (Throne):

His Kursi (Throne) extends over the entire universe, showing His greatness and power.

No Effort in Preserving the Universe:

Allah does not feel burdened in maintaining the heavens and the earth, proving His infinite strength.

He is the Most High and Most Great:

The verse ends by affirming Allah’s supreme status, reminding believers of His greatness and majesty.

Benefits of Reciting Ayatul Kursi

Ayatul Kursi is a verse filled with divine blessings and protection. Some of its benefits include:

Protection from Evil:

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said that reciting Ayatul Kursi ensures protection from evil spirits, Jinn, and Shaitan.

Before Sleeping:

The Prophet (PBUH) advised reciting it before sleeping, as it ensures divine protection throughout the night.

After Salah (Prayers):

Reading Ayatul Kursi after every fardh prayer guarantees entry into Paradise (Jannah).

Safety from Harm:

Reciting Ayatul Kursi when leaving home ensures safety from dangers and misfortunes.

Spiritual Upliftment:

It strengthens faith, instills peace, and brings believers closer to Allah.

Hadiths About Ayatul Kursi

Several hadiths highlight the significance of Ayatul Kursi:

Most Powerful Verse:

The Prophet (PBUH) said: “Ayatul Kursi is the greatest verse in the Quran.” (Sahih Muslim)

Guardian Angel Protection:

Abu Huraira (RA) reported that the Prophet (PBUH) said: "Whoever recites Ayatul Kursi at night, Allah appoints a guardian angel for him until morning." (Bukhari)

Key to Paradise:

The Prophet (PBUH) said: "Whoever recites Ayatul Kursi after every prescribed prayer, nothing is preventing him from entering Jannah except death." (Nasai, Ibn Hibban)

When and Where to Recite Ayatul Kursi

After every Fardh prayer (ensures closeness to Jannah)

Before sleeping (for night protection)

When leaving the house (for safety)

During times of fear or distress

Over children for protection

When entering a new place

Conclusion:

Ayatul Kursi is a powerful verse that signifies Allah’s ultimate authority, knowledge, and protection. Reciting it regularly brings immense blessings, security, and spiritual peace. Every Muslim should make it a habit to recite this verse daily to seek Allah’s mercy and safeguard themselves from harm.

May Allah grant us the ability to recite and understand the significance of Ayatul Kursi. Ameen!