Quran/67

See also Category:Quran/67

Surah Al-Mulk (Chapter 67) holds a special place in Islam, offering a wealth of virtues and benefits for those who recite it regularly. When combined with the teachings of Imām Ibn al-Qayyim about moments of seclusion with Allāh, the Surah's significance becomes even more profound. Here's a reflection that combines both:

Moments of Seclusion & The Virtue of Surah Al-Mulk

Imām Ibn al-Qayyim beautifully reminds us:

“Get used to privacy with your Lord [in obedience to Him], because you will be alone with Him in the grave for a long time.”

Al-Fawā’id

In our world, where distractions abound, carving out moments of solitude for reflection and remembrance of Allāh is crucial. It is in these quiet moments that the heart can reconnect with its Creator, finding peace and solace that transcends the noise of daily life. These moments of seclusion allow us to strengthen our relationship with Allāh, preparing us for the time when we will truly be alone—first in the grave, and then before Allāh on the Day of Judgment.

One powerful way to enrich these moments of seclusion is through the recitation of Surah Al-Mulk. The Surah, often referred to as "The Sovereignty," contains deep reflections on the greatness of Allāh, the majesty of His creation, and the reality of life and death. It serves as a reminder of Allāh's power over the heavens and the earth, reinforcing the importance of turning to Him in solitude.

Virtues of Surah Al-Mulk:

Protection from the punishment of the grave: The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said: “There is a Surah in the Qur’an which contains thirty Ayahs which kept interceding for a man until his sins are forgiven. This Surah is: Blessed is He in Whose Hand is the Dominion (Al-Mulk)” (Tirmidhi). Reciting Surah Al-Mulk daily, especially in the privacy of one's moments with Allāh, is a shield against the punishment of the grave. As we read it in seclusion, the Surah works as an advocate for us in the afterlife.
A reminder of Allāh’s sovereignty: Surah Al-Mulk begins with the verse: “Blessed is He in Whose Hand is the dominion, and He is over all things competent.” (67:1) This verse is a powerful reminder of Allāh’s ultimate control over everything—His dominion extends over the heavens, the earth, and everything within them. In our moments of seclusion, we reflect on this sovereignty, reminding ourselves that no matter the struggles or distractions we face, Allāh is in control, and we are never truly alone.
A source of comfort in times of loneliness: Imām Ibn al-Qayyim beautifully said: "Whoever tastes the sweetness of being alone with Allāh will never feel alone again, neither in this world, nor in the grave, nor on the Day when all stand before Him.” The sweetness of seclusion with Allāh, enhanced by the recitation of Surah Al-Mulk, is a powerful antidote to loneliness. In our solitary moments of reflection, we can feel the comfort of His nearness, and the Surah serves as a constant reminder that we are never abandoned by our Creator (Quran/93/3 [1], ).
A source of intercession on the Day of Judgment: The Prophet (ﷺ) also said: “Surah Al-Mulk is a shield for its reciter, protecting them from the punishment of the grave.” (Ahmad) In our moments of isolation and remembrance, the Surah acts as a protector, guarding us from the trials of the grave and interceding on our behalf on the Day of Judgment.

The Power of Daily Seclusion & Recitation

By spending even ten minutes a day in quiet solitude with Allāh, dedicating this time to dhikr, reflection, and the recitation of Surah Al-Mulk, we invite Allāh’s mercy, protection, and guidance into our lives. These moments of seclusion not only strengthen our hearts and minds but also help us align ourselves with the reality of the afterlife. The Surah reminds us that everything in this world is temporary, and our ultimate purpose is to return to Allāh in peace.

As we embrace these moments of quiet reflection, we acknowledge that even in solitude, we are never truly alone. Allāh, the Sovereign of the heavens and the earth, is always with us, and Surah Al-Mulk serves as a reminder of His eternal power and mercy. May we, through our seclusion and the recitation of this blessed Surah, draw closer to Him and find peace in His presence, both in this life and in the Hereafter.

Conclusion

In the solitude of our daily lives, where distractions abound, it is crucial to carve out moments of seclusion with Allāh. The recitation of Surah Al-Mulk is a means to strengthen our bond with our Creator, protect us from the punishment of the grave, and provide comfort in our moments of loneliness. May we find sweetness in these moments, remembering that our Lord is always near, and He is the ultimate source of peace and protection. Ameen. [2] [3]