surah al-fatihah

Surah Fatihah, as the name indicates, is the Opening Chapter of the Holy Qur-an. The "Opt repeated seven verses" (15:87) of this chapter are recited many times everyday during the Salat or daily Prayers. This chapter is also called Umm al-Kitab or the Gist of the Book, that means, it contains the sum and substance of the Holy Qur-an The Author of the Holy Qur-an, while revealing His identification, said that His name is "Allah". Then He mentioned what or who He is. He mentioned that He is the "Rabb" or the Creator (and Sustainer) of the whole universe. Thereafter He mentioned that He is the "Rahman" i.e. the Provider of Sustenance for His creation. Then He said, He is the "Rahim" i.e. Most Rewarding for the activities of His creatures; and at the same time He said that He is "Malik" i.e., Master of Judgment for the good and bad deeds done by mankind. Allah, by disclosing His identity to man, was so kind as to teach him that man should worship Him alone, and should seek His help for fulfillment of all his desires. Let his life be straight and upright, and may he be protected from falling into pitfalls.

[I seek refuge with Allah, from the Shaitan, the driven away.]

With the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Rewarding

THE Hamd belong to Allah, the Rabb of all the worlds;

2 the Rahman, the Rahim;

3 Malik of the Day of Requital.

4 You alone we do serve, and to You alone we beseech for help.

5 Guide us on the Right Path,

6 the path of those upon whom You have bestowed favors;