Surah Al-Kawthar

God the Almighty brought the Quran down to us in order for it to be examined, contemplated, and thought broadly and deeply about. It is important that we as readers not just read it, but understand the meaning behind it. Today, inshallah, our discussion will be focusing on Surat Al-Kawthar, which is a noble surat from the Noble Quran. Despite its minimum number of verses, it holds a significant meaning and a generous amount of benefits. Sheikh of Islam Ibn Taymiyyah, may God have mercy on him, has stated, “How long a surah it is, and its benefits are more abundant that its abbreviation”.

The purpose for its descent:

After the bad people from Mecca met together and shared negative comments against Prophet Muhammed, (PBUH), Allah sent Surah Al- Kawthar to support the Prophet, especially after the passing of his son. Comments that were discussed included how the Prophet will never be remembered and how none of his children will continue his message. Surah Al-Kawthar proves their comments wrong, as this Surah supported the Prophet and how his name will forever be remembered and recognized for eternity, and only those non-believers will be the ones who aren’t remembered.

In another Hadith, narrated by Anas Ibn Malek, the Prophet was seated amongst them in the masjid, and dozed off for a short period. He eventually lifted his head up and smiled. He asked them, “Do you know what I’m smiling about?”. They replied by simply saying that only Allah and his Prophet knows. He informed them that Allah revealed another Surah to him and promised him that he will have Al-Kawthar, which is a river in paradise, that he will share with his Muslim nation. The Prophet will ask Allah in paradise why a Muslim man was taken away from Al-Kawthar. Allah will reply to him that this Muslim man that had come after you in life was not a good follower and has sins, which is why he is taken away form experiencing Al-Kawthar.

This river is described to be flown on the surface of Paradise without any cracks or crevices in it. This hadith was stated by Anas Ibn Malik (may Allah be pleased with him).

Those who drink from Al-Kawthar river will fully be able to quench their thirst and will never feel thirsty again. This water will taste sweeter than honey and will appear whiter than milk.

It is necessary that we as believers remain grateful for Al-Kawthar and for all the wonderful gifts that Allah has generously given to us.

Hadith Qudsi explains that Allah said that those who are hostile to one of my followers will have a war declared towards him. The best thing that a believer can do for Allah is to complete their obligations; and those who go beyond their obligations and attempt to feel closer to Allah by completing more good deeds will result in Allah being closer to them. Allah will respond to their dua’s and give them whatever they have asked for.

When you think deeply about the meanings in the Surah, you will recognize and notice how Allah has given us many gifts and that we need to be grateful for everything Allah has done for us. If a person is grateful for Allah and shows that through his actions and words, Allah will continue to support him and be on his side throughout his life.

Allah mentioned that because he has given you Al-Kawthar and continues to be on your side and defend you against the non-believers, you should proceed with keeping your prayers pure and your sacrifices should all be under the name and sake of Allah.

The last Ayah in Surah Al-Kawthar explains how those who hated and spoke badly about the Prophet (PBUH), will suffer severely and regret it.

The meaning of Abtar, is an individual who has no children that will be able to carry on his name after he passes.