Al-Fatihah - The Opening Chapter
The essential prayer recited in every unit of salat, containing the essence of the Quran.
Surah Al-Fatihah (الفاتحة) is the opening chapter of the Quran and the most recited passage in Islam, required in every unit of prayer. Called 'Umm al-Kitab' (Mother of the Book) and 'As-Sab' al-Mathani' (The Seven Oft-Repeated Verses), it contains praise of Allah, acknowledgment of His sovereignty, a plea for guidance, and the prayer to be led on the straight path. The Prophet (PBUH) said there is no prayer without Al-Fatihah. In a hadith qudsi, Allah says He has divided the prayer (Al-Fatihah) between Himself and His servant—the first half is praise, the second half is the servant's requests granted.
Guide us on the Straight Path—the path of those upon whom You have bestowed favor.
Al-Ghazali taught that Al-Fatihah is the key to all doors—its meanings contain the entirety of the Quran's message when deeply understood.
Quran