Ayatul Kursi or the Throne Verse is the verse much loved and revered among those who embrace references from the Quran. Found in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:This is true despite the fact that its numerical value or numeric gematria according to the Kabbalists is (hah) 255, it has profound deeper meanings and blessings for Muslims globally. For protection, seeking help and blessings for maintaining closeness with Allah, Ayatul Kursi is a part of Sunnah practice in Islamic belief system.
The Text and Translation of Ayatul Kursi
Below is the Arabic text of Ayatul Kursi, followed by its translation:
اللَّهُ لَا إِلَٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ الْحَيُّ الْقَيُّومُ
لَا تَأْخُذُهُ سِنَةٌ وَلَا نَوْمٌ ۚ
لَهُ مَا فِي السَّمَاوَاتِ وَمَا فِي الْأَرْضِ ۗ
مَنْ ذَا الَّذِي يَشْفَعُ عِنْدَهُ 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
Translation: “Allah! He is the only deity, the Ever Living, the Sustainer, of all that exists. It does not occur that drowsiness overpowers Him or sleep overcomes Him. All that is in the heavens and all that is on earth is His. But who is he that can stand between him and pray to Him, except by His leave? He knows what is [presently] before them and what will be after them and they encompass not a thing of His knowledge, save that which He wills. His Kursi spans across the heavens and the earth and the preservation of the heavens and the earth does not exhaust His energy. And He is the Most High, the Most Great.”
The Significance of Ayatul Kursi
1. The Greatest Verse in the Quran
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) described as the greatest verse in the Quran. It encapsulates the essence of Tawhid (monotheism) by emphasizing Allah’s oneness, sovereignty, and unparalleled power.
In a hadith, the Prophet asked Ubayy ibn Ka’b, “Which verse in the Quran is the greatest?” Ubayy replied, “Ayatul Kursi.” The Prophet confirmed this, highlighting its extraordinary status.
2. A Shield of Protection
This is often recited for protection against evil forces, including Shaytan (Satan) and harmful entities. Its powerful words act as a spiritual shield, guarding the believer’s home, body, and soul.
In another hadith, the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “When you go to your bed, recite Ayatul Kursi, and you will remain under the protection of Allah, and no devil will come near you until morning” (Sahih Bukhari).
3. A Gateway to Paradise
The frequent recitation of Ayatul Kursi is a means of earning Allah’s pleasure and attaining Paradise. According to a hadith, the Prophet stated, “Whoever recites this after every obligatory prayer, nothing stands between him and Paradise except death” (Sunan An-Nasa’i).
4. Emphasizing Allah’s Attributes
Ayatul Kursi highlights some of the most significant attributes of Allah:
- Al-Hayy (The Ever-Living): Allah is eternal and self-sustaining, unlike His creation.
- Al-Qayyum (The Sustainer): Allah manages the affairs of the universe without the need for rest.
- Al-Aliyy (The Most High) and Al-Azim (The Most Great): These names affirm Allah’s supremacy and greatness.
Key Themes
1. Tawhid (Monotheism)
The verse begins with the declaration of Allah’s oneness: “There is no deity except Him.” This underscores the central tenet of Islam, affirming that Allah alone is worthy of worship.
2. Allah’s Sovereignty
Ayatul Kursi describes Allah as the owner of everything in the heavens and the earth, signifying His absolute dominion over creation.
3. Knowledge and Wisdom
Allah’s infinite knowledge encompasses all things—past, present, and future. Humans and jinn cannot comprehend His knowledge except what He permits them to understand.
4. Divine Power
The phrase “His Kursi extends over the heavens and the earth” symbolizes Allah’s vast authority and power. Despite the enormity of creation, its preservation does not tire Allah, demonstrating His limitless capability.
Benefits of Reciting Ayatul Kursi
1. Protection from Evil
Muslims recite Ayatul Kursi to seek protection from visible and invisible harms. It is often included in morning and evening adhkar (remembrances) and before sleeping.
2. Strengthening Faith
The verse serves as a reminder of Allah’s majesty and control over all matters. So, Regular recitation strengthens a believer’s faith and reliance on Allah.
3. Blessings in the Home
Reciting Ayatul Kursi in one’s home ensures blessings and protection for the household. But It is believed to repel evil spirits and bring tranquility to the environment.
4. Intercession on the Day of Judgment
The immense virtues of Ayatul Kursi make it a source of intercession on the Day of Judgment. Its recitation demonstrates a believer’s acknowledgment of Allah’s greatness and dependency on Him.
When and How to Recite Ayatul Kursi
- After Obligatory Prayers:
Recite Ayatul Kursi after each fard (obligatory) prayer to earn Allah’s protection and blessings throughout the day. - Before Sleeping:
The Prophet (peace be upon him) recommended reciting Ayatul Kursi before sleeping for safety from Shaytan during the night. - Morning and Evening Adhkar:
Including Ayatul Kursi in daily morning and evening supplications offers round-the-clock protection. - In Times of Fear or Anxiety:
Reciting Ayatul Kursi during moments of fear, uncertainty, or stress brings comfort and reassurance through Allah’s guidance and care.
Lessons from Ayatul Kursi
- Complete Dependence on Allah:
Ayatul Kursi reminds us that Allah alone possesses absolute knowledge, power, and authority. But this reinforces the believer’s reliance on Him in all aspects of life. - Acknowledgment of Allah’s Greatness:
The verse elevates our understanding of Allah’s infinite greatness, making us mindful of His omnipresence in our lives. - The Fragility of Creation:
Unlike Allah, humans and other beings are subject to limitations such as fatigue, ignorance, and dependency. So, recognizing this fosters humility and gratitude.
Conclusion
Ayatul Kursi is a verse of unparalleled beauty, depth, and significance in the Quran. Its recitation is a profound act of worship that brings numerous spiritual benefits, including protection, blessings, and a stronger bond with Allah. By regularly reciting and reflecting on Ayatul Kursi, believers can attain peace, security, and guidance in their lives.
Whether as part of daily prayers, supplications, or moments of reflection, Ayatul Kursi serves as a reminder of Allah’s greatness, mercy, and unmatched power. For those seeking spiritual protection and proximity to their Creator, Ayatul Kursi remains a timeless source of solace and inspiration.
