Surah Al-Baqarah, meaning 'The Cow,' is the second and longest chapter of the Quran with 286 verses. This Medinan surah addresses the early Muslim community in Medina, providing comprehensive guidance on faith, law, and social conduct. It contains some of the most significant verses in Islamic theology, including Ayatul Kursi (Verse of the Throne) and detailed instructions for Muslim society.
Surah Al-Baqarah was revealed in Medina over several years after the Hijra (migration). As a Medinan surah, it focuses on building the Muslim community, establishing laws, and providing practical guidance for believers. The surah was revealed in multiple parts, addressing various situations and challenges faced by the early Muslim community in Medina.
The major themes include the stories of previous nations, particularly the Children of Israel, guidance for the Muslim community, laws of marriage and divorce, financial transactions, and the famous Ayatul Kursi. The surah emphasizes patience, prayer, and reliance on Allah. It also contains the longest verse in the Quran (Ayatul Mudayana - Verse of Debt) providing detailed guidance on financial dealings and contracts.
Reciting Surah Al-Baqarah brings immense spiritual benefits. The Prophet (PBUH) said that reciting it drives away Satan from one's home for three days. Regular recitation provides protection from evil, increases barakah (blessings), and brings peace to the household. Ayatul Kursi alone is considered one of the greatest verses for protection and spiritual strength.
Style: Murattal
Mishary Rashid Alafasy is a Kuwaiti reciter and imam. He is known for his unique vocal control and deeply moving recitation style, which has made him one of the most recognized reciters globally.
Surah Al-Baqarah is named after the story of the cow mentioned in verses 67-73, where Moses instructed the Children of Israel to sacrifice a cow as commanded by Allah. This story illustrates obedience to divine commands and the consequences of questioning Allah's wisdom.
Ayatul Kursi (verse 255) is considered the greatest verse in the Quran, describing Allah's absolute sovereignty and knowledge. It provides protection when recited, and the Prophet (PBUH) called it the master of all Quranic verses due to its profound description of Allah's attributes.
Surah Al-Baqarah takes approximately 2-3 hours to recite completely, depending on the recitation speed. Being the longest chapter with 286 verses, many people divide it into sections for daily recitation rather than completing it in one sitting.
Regular recitation of Surah Al-Baqarah protects the home from Satan for three days, brings barakah to the household, provides spiritual strength, and offers comprehensive guidance for life. It's particularly beneficial for protection against evil eye and negative influences.
Surah Al-Baqarah is a Medinan surah, revealed after the Prophet's migration to Medina. It addresses the challenges of building a Muslim society and contains detailed laws and guidance for the community, which is characteristic of Medinan revelations.
Al-Baqarah