Surah Fil, the 105th surah of the Quran with five verses, offers various benefits upon recitation. Here are some of the benefits:
1. Rewards in the Hereafter
The concept of rewards in the afterlife is deeply rooted in Islamic theology. The act of reciting Surah Fil during obligatory prayers is not merely a ritualistic practice but a profound spiritual endeavor. By engaging in this act, believers are not only fulfilling a religious duty but are also drawing closer to Allah. The testimony of the universe’s creatures is a metaphorical representation of the universal acknowledgment of the believer’s devotion. Being recognized as a beloved servant of Allah is one of the highest honors a believer can aspire to, signifying a deep bond with the Creator.
2. Prayer Requirement
The combined recitation of Surah Fil and Surah Quraysh serves a dual purpose. Firstly, it emphasizes the interconnectedness of the Quranic chapters, where each Surah complements and builds upon the other. Secondly, it underscores the importance of adhering to religious guidelines. By ensuring that both Surahs are recited together, believers are aligning themselves with the prescribed way of worship, ensuring their prayers are accepted and blessed.
3. Protection from Enemies
The act of reciting Surah Fil 98 times on a Wednesday is a specific ritual that underscores the power of intention and focused prayer. By directing the blessings of the Surah towards one’s enemies, believers are invoking divine intervention. This practice is not about wishing harm but seeking protection and justice from any unjust harm or threat posed by adversaries.
4. Safety from Drowning
Water, in many religious traditions, is a symbol of life, purity, and sometimes danger. The promise of protection from drowning associated with Surah Fil is a testament to Allah’s encompassing mercy. It serves as a reminder that divine protection can manifest in various forms, from guarding against physical dangers to providing spiritual and emotional safety.
5. Easy Memorization for Kids
Introducing children to the Quran with shorter Surahs like Surah Fil is a strategic and compassionate approach to religious education. It ensures that young learners feel a sense of achievement early on, fostering a positive relationship with the Quran. This early success can be a foundation for their lifelong journey of Quranic exploration and understanding.
6. Enhanced Faith and Reliance on Allah
The historical context of Surah Fil, where a massive army with elephants intended to destroy the Kaaba but was divinely thwarted, is a testament to Allah’s protective power over sacred spaces and His believers. By reflecting on this event, believers are reminded that no matter how insurmountable challenges may seem, with faith and reliance on Allah, they can overcome any adversity.
Hint: Learn the language of the Quran with the MSA Arabic Fusha Course, a program designed to help you master Modern Standard Arabic.
What is the miracle of the elephant in Islam?
The miracle of the elephant, known as ʿām al-fīl (Arabic: عام الفيل, Year of the Elephant), refers to an event that occurred in the year approximately equating to 570–571 CE, which is also believed to be the year of Prophet Muhammad’s birth. The event is as follows:
1. Abraha’s Expedition:
Abraha, the Christian king of Himyarite (in present-day Yemen), marched towards Mecca with a large army, which included war elephants, intending to demolish the Ka‘bah. The lead elephant, named ‘Mahmud’, reportedly stopped at the boundary around Mecca and refused to enter.
2. Divine Intervention:
According to Islamic tradition and the Quran (Surah Fil), the army was destroyed by small birds called ‘Ababil’ (Arabic: أَبـابـيـل). These birds carried small rocks in their beaks and bombarded the Ethiopian forces, decimating them like “eaten straw”. This miraculous event is interpreted differently, with some believing it was a sudden epidemic or a divine catastrophe pre-ordained by God.
3. Significance:
The Year of the Elephant is significant in Islamic history as it marks the birth year of Prophet Muhammad. This event is seen as a miraculous protection of the Ka‘bah, a holy site in Islam, and is commemorated in Surah 105 of the Quran, Al-Fil (The Elephant).
Hint: Unlock the true beauty of Quranic recitation by enrolling in online Tajweed classes taught by native Arab instructors. Polish your recitation skills and receive valuable feedback to recite the Quran flawlessly.
What is Surah Al-Fil Tafseer for kids?
1. Story Background:
Abdullah, the father of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), married Amina. Unfortunately, Abdullah passed away before the birth of his son, Muhammad (pbuh). During this time, Abraha, the Governor of Yemen, wanted to take control of Makkah due to its significance as a business center and the house of God.
2. Abraha’s Attack:
Abraha prepared to attack Makkah with a large army, which included around 13 big elephants and sixty thousand soldiers. The people of Makkah were scared, but Abdul Muttalib had strong faith in Allah. He advised everyone to take their families and hide in the mountains.
3. Miracle Happens:
When Abraha’s army approached Makkah, the elephants refused to move forward. Suddenly, they started running in the opposite direction. Allah sent small birds carrying three stones each (one in their beak and two in their claws). These birds dropped the stones on Abraha’s army, instantly killing them. Their bodies were left like mashed corn.
4. Significance:
This miracle was a warning to the world not to attack Makkah. It also signaled the coming of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) to protect Allah’s house and law. Surah Fil was revealed to remind people of how Allah destroyed Abraha’s army with small birds.
5. Fun Facts:
- “Fil” means “the Elephant”.
- Abraha was a slave in his early life.
- He built a large temple and wanted people to worship there instead of the Kaaba.
- The attack on the Kaaba happened just 50 days before Muhammad (pbuh) was born.
- Abdul Muttalib prayed only to Allah to save the Kaaba, forgetting all other idols.
- After this incident, for the next 7 to 10 years, the people of Quraish recognized Allah as their God.
Hint: Delve deeper into the proper pronunciation of specific Arabic letters, such as Raa, Laam, and Alif, with the rules of Tafkheem and Tarqeeq. Explore the concept of Ghunna, the nasal sound, and understand how it affects the sound of these letters in recitation.
