120 - The special merit of Surah 112, The Purity of Faith.

1. The Prophet (peace be upon him) asked his companions whether any of them was ready to recite one-third of the Qur’an every night.

2. His companions felt the question strange, as it required something hard of them. The Prophet never used to require them to do what they were unable to accomplish.

3. He told them that the surah that mentions God by His oneness and eternity is equal to one-third of the Qur’an with regard to its merit and reward. This surah is entitled al-Ikhlāṣ, or Purity of Faith. The Prophet referred to it using a couple of God’s attributes it mentions, particularly al-Ṣamad. This attribute, which is translated as ‘the Eternal, the Absolute’ has many connotations that refer to several of God’s attributes. One of these is that God does not need food or anything, and none is similar to Him in any way. Further, He is the One sought for help, as He is in no need of anyone of His creation, while all of them are in need of Him and His help. Also, He is the One who remains after all creation have died. 

Composed of a small number of words,[2]  this surah is equal to one-third of the Qur’an because it focuses on God’s oneness and mentions some of God’s names and attributes. It makes absolutely clear that He has neither partner, nor equal, nor a son. God’s Book, the Qur’an, has three main themes: 1) the explanation of God’s oneness and His attributes; 2) stating the Islamic code of law, explaining what is lawful and what is unlawful; and 3) giving accounts of past communities. This surah tackles the first of these three themes, i.e. God’s oneness. Therefore, a person who recites this surah earns a reward equal to that of one who recites one-third of the Qur’an. 

1. It is good to choose the proper and more effective methods of address. Some discourse may be good and useful, but the right way of presenting it may make it easier to accept and act upon. This applies in most situations, including one’s discourse with one’s children, family, students and others to whom one may give advice or have some business with. 

2. The Prophet used the method of asking a strange question to prepare his companions to receive the information he wanted to give them. He asked them whether they were ready to do something which appeared to be beyond their ability. As a result, they were fully attentive to him as he explained how a person could recite that much of the Qur’an during one night. Such a method of putting some strange questions, or relating some marvellous events is highly effective in keeping one’s audience alert, ready to receive and understand the information to be given. Advocates of Islam, scholars, teachers and educators will do well to use this method.

3. The hadith shows the Prophet’s wisdom in educating his companions, preferring to put forward a proposal rather than give an order. It is important to learn from the Prophet his way of educating his companions. He used every way that encourages his audience to do what he suggests to them. 

4.  The Shariah assigns easy tasks that ensure fine and plentiful reward. Every Muslim should be keen to make the best use of such divine gifts.

5. The hadith shows how well-mannered the Prophet’s companions were. They did not reject his proposition, but tried to politely excuse themselves. It is important to behave towards our teachers in the same manner.
 
6. We need to give Surah 112, al-Ikhlāṣ or Purity of Faith, its due importance. The Prophet highlighted its great merit because it is great indeed. Every Muslim should ensure to memorize, study, understand and teach it, at home, school and study circles. This applies to everything God states as important.

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