We are told to recite Surah Al Kahf every Friday. And there is a reason for that.
As we get closer to the fitnah of Dajjal, the greatest, most difficult trial for humanity, we need to proactively work on preserving and strengthening our faith, lest we lose it.
Surah Al Kahf shares some powerful lessons to help us fight with and win over the modern day spiritual challenges and protect our faith as we live through difficult times.
The Fitnah of Dajjal
Abu Darda’ reported Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) as saying: If anyone learns by heart the first ten verses of the Surah al-Kahf, he will be protected from the Dajjal. [Sahih Muslim 809a]
Right now is the closest we have ever been to this greatest fitnah and this surah is our protection from it.
Seek Allah (SWT)’s Protection
Surah Al Kahf tells us the story of a group of young men who were living in the times of fitnah, just like we do. The only difference: they risked losing their lives, and not just a group of friends, when they chose to stay firm on the Deen.
Did they give up though? Nope. They turned to Allah (SWT). Sought His Help. And, Allah (SWT) didn’t leave them alone either. He sent His Miraculous help and put them to sleep for over 300 years until they woke up safe, healthy, and in an era where following the Deen didn’t bring the risk of persecution.
No Point In Asking Pointless Questions
There’s often a discussion about the number of people in The Cave. But arguing about the number of the People of The Cave is pointless. It adds nothing to the lesson Allah (SWT) wants us to learn from it and diverts focus away from what is beneficial.
In an era where we are already surrounded by so many distractions, pursuing pointless information is the last thing we should be doing as productive Muslims.
Don’t Be Proud of Your Blessings
Surah Al Kahf reminds us to never be too proud of the material things we have by narrating the story of the man who had two lush gardens. But he chose pride over gratitude. Allah (SWT) disliked his pride. His gardens were destroyed. He was left with nothing but regret.
No matter what we earn in terms of material wealth or learn in terms of knowledge, we must never leave humility and gratitude behind. So, if you find yourself having more than others, don’t forget to say MashaAllah La Quwwatta Illah Billah and thank Allah (SWT) for everything He has blessed you with.
Exert Your Utmost Effort in Seeking Knowledge
Knowledge is the armour that can help protect our faith against doubts in times of fitnah. But knowledge doesn’t come easy.
As we set out in search of knowledge, we should know that the journey will demand more than just effort. We will have to show up with unwavering determination and a will to sacrifice everything that the journey demands.
Only then will we be able to get the knowledge that benefits us?
There’s Always A Silver Lining
Musa (AS) went to great lengths to meet Al Khidr. But when he set out with him to learn from him, the things Al Khidr did made no sense to Musa (AS). But we learn from the Surah that everything has a hidden wisdom.
There are times when life makes no sense. We experience destructive events. Take what’s happening in Gaza as an example. Many people can’t help but think, why is this happening?
Surah Kahf teaches us, everything, no matter how bad it may seem, always has khayr in it. If we hold on to faith and positivity, Allah (SWT) may make us see the divine wisdom behind those seemingly destructive events.
As we wave our way through these times of fitnah and try to hold on to our values even when it seems impossible, let us turn to Surah Al Kahf and learn and implement the lessons that Allah (SWT) has given us to fight the fitnah, stay firm, and protect our faith.
What other gems can you think of from this beautiful Surah?
