The Ritual of Seeking Refuge Before Reciting the Quran
Welcome to the world of Islamic tradition and practice! Today, we will delve into an essential ritual mentioned in the Quran and hadith: seeking refuge with Allah from Satan the accursed (intoning “Aa’udhu Billahi minash-Shaitan ir-Rajeem”) before reciting the Quran. This practice is not only a matter of personal choice but is commandment by Allah himself.
Why Is Seeking Refuge Important?
According to Quran 16:98, it is mandated that believers recite the verse “Aa’udhu Billahi minash-Shaitan ir-Rajeem” before beginning Quranic recitation. This verse is derived from the Arabic expression meaning "I take refuge in Allah from Satan the Accursed."
The Significance of the Verse
The verse serves as a means of seeking protection from the evil influences that may obstruct one’s spiritual journey. It invokes the name of Allah and invokes His protection, signaling a moment of purity and intention before delving into the sacred text.
One’s Practice in Recitation
When one opens the book of Allah, the Quran, they also open themselves to its profound and transformative wisdom. However, to ensure one’s recitation is conducted with the purest intentions, the mention of this verse is essential. This ritual is practiced by Muslims around the world to purify their souls and protect themselves from any negative influences found within the text.
The Significance in Hadith
According to the hadith, seeking refuge is not only a Quranic command but also confirmed in the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). It is a practice that transcends generations, ensuring that the sanctity of the Quran is maintained.
The Bismillah: An Omnipresent Reminder
Before we delve into the specific mention of this verse, it is worth noting the importance of reciting Bismillah (in the name of Allah), which is said before reading the Quran. While it is true that Bismillah is not mentioned at the beginning of Surah Al-Repentance (Surah Tauba), it is repeatedly found throughout the Quran, making its significance equally profound. The immediate mention of Bismillah also serves as a powerful reminder of the divine origin of the text.
Bismillah: A Universal Mention
It is important to note that Bismillah is mentioned in Surah Namilyat twice, making its presence in the Quran significant. However, the specific mention of seeking refuge with Allah from Satan the accursed before reciting the verse is a vital step in maintaining spiritual purity and reverence for the text.
Conclusion
In conclusion, seeking refuge with Allah from Satan the accursed before reciting the Quran is a deeply significant practice that is both commandment and tradition in Islam. It serves as a reminder of the sacred nature of the text, the importance of spiritual protection, and the continuous dedication to embracing the divine messages within the Quran.
For those interested in understanding the deeper meanings and practices surrounding the Quran, seeking guidance from qualified scholars and engaging in regular recitation and reflection can provide valuable insights.