ٱهْدِنَا ٱلصِّرَٰطَ ٱلْمُسْتَقِيمَ 6
Translations
Guide us to the straight path -
Transliteration
Ihdina as-sirata al-mustaqim
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah is a supplication asking Allah to guide us to the Straight Path (as-sirat al-mustaqim), which refers to the path of truth, righteousness, and obedience to Allah as exemplified in the Quran and Sunnah. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari explain that this guidance encompasses both intellectual understanding of truth and the ability to act upon it steadfastly. This verse encapsulates the core purpose of human existence: seeking divine guidance in all matters of life and steadfastly adhering to the religion of Islam.
Revelation Context
Al-Fatihah was revealed in Mecca as the opening chapter of the Quran, serving as an introduction to the entire divine message. This particular ayah is part of the concluding supplications of the surah, representing the ultimate request of every believer—guidance from the All-Knowing, All-Wise Creator. The surah itself was prescribed as a mandatory component of every prayer (salah), making this plea for guidance central to Islamic worship.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: 'Whoever recites Surah Al-Fatihah, it is as if he has recited the Quran' (Jami' at-Tirmidhi). Additionally, the Prophet emphasized that guidance (hidayah) is in Allah's hands alone, as mentioned in multiple hadiths including those in Sahih Bukhari and Sahih Muslim regarding the supplications for guidance.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches believers that true success and fulfillment come only through seeking Allah's guidance and maintaining steadfastness on the path of righteousness. In modern times, it reminds us to continually reflect on whether our decisions, beliefs, and actions align with Islamic principles, and to humbly ask Allah for wisdom and correct guidance in navigating life's complexities.