بِسْمِ ٱللَّهِ ٱلرَّحْمَـٰنِ ٱلرَّحِيمِ ١
In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful.
Surah Al-Fatihah — Meaning
Surah Al-Fatihah (سُورَةُ ٱلْفَاتِحَة) is the first chapter of the Qur''an and the most recited surah in the world. Every Muslim reads it in every unit of every prayer — at least 17 times a day.
Its seven verses open with praise of Allah, affirm His mercy and lordship over the Day of Judgment, and then ask for guidance to the straight path. This page walks through the meaning of Surah Al-Fatihah in Arabic Uthmani, with English translation, transliteration, and brief reflection.
Virtues
- The Mother of the Book: the Prophet ﷺ called Al-Fatihah "Umm al-Kitab" — the essence of the Qur''an.
- The greatest surah in the Qur''an: he ﷺ said, "I will teach you the greatest surah in the Qur''an before you leave the mosque" — then he recited Al-Fatihah.
- A cure (ruqyah): it was recited by companions as a healing prayer with the Prophet''s ﷺ approval.
- A direct conversation with Allah: in a qudsi hadith, Allah says He has divided this surah between Himself and His servant, responding to each verse.
When to recite
- Every prayer: a pillar of every rakʿah in every salah — fard, sunnah, and nafl.
- Morning and evening: as part of daily remembrance and reflection.
- Before dua: many begin their supplications with Al-Fatihah.
- For healing: recited over oneself or the sick, seeking Allah''s cure.
Frequently asked
What does Al-Fatihah mean?
Al-Fatihah means ''The Opening'' — it is the opening chapter of the Qur''an, and a prayer for guidance to the straight path.
How many verses are in Surah Al-Fatihah?
Surah Al-Fatihah has 7 verses.
Why is Surah Al-Fatihah recited in every prayer?
The Prophet ﷺ said, ''There is no prayer for the one who does not recite the Opening of the Book.'' It is a pillar of every rakʿah.
What is the summary of Surah Al-Fatihah?
It praises Allah, affirms His mercy and sovereignty over the Day of Judgment, and asks Him to guide us on the straight path — the path of those He has blessed.