Background Information of Surah Al-Fatiha
General Significance
Name and Meaning: Al-Fātiḥa translates to “The Opening”, “Introduction”, or “Preface”.
Position in the Qur’an: It is the first Surah of the Qur’an and is recited at the beginning of every prayer.
Alternative Names and Their Meanings
Ummu-l-Kitāb / Ummu-l-Qur’ān: “Mother of the Book” / “Mother of the Qur’an”, symbolizing the beginning of the Qur’an.
Suratu-ṣ-Ṣalāh: “Surah of Prayer”, marks the start of the prayer.
Revelation and Special Status
Place and Time of Revelation: The seven verses of Al-Fātiḥa were revealed in Mecca before the Hijra.
Significance in Hadiths: According to hadiths, particularly by Al-Bukhari, Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) described it as the most significant Surah of the Qur’an.
Central Role in Prayer
Importance in Prayer: No prayer is valid without reciting Al-Fātiḥa in each unit (Rak’a). It is repeated at least twice in every prayer.
Designation: Also known as “The Seven Repeatedly Recited” and “the Great Qur’an”.
Theological Importance
Teaching of Tawhid: The Surah teaches monotheism (Tawhid) and outlines fundamental aspects of the relationship between Allah and humans.
Topical Analysis of Rukus
Ruku 1: Verses 1-7
Allah introduces Himself and teaches us how to pray.
