Reflections on the Aesthetic Secrets of Surah Al-Fatiha

Abstract

The context of the blessed Surah Al-Fatiha is a divine composition crafted by Allah to teach His servants the etiquette of supplication and intimate conversation. Notably, certain words in the Surah are repeated, and each repetition carries its own secret, purpose, and philosophy. Divine mercy permeates the entirety of the Surah, encompassing both Ar-Rahman (the All-Merciful) and Ar-Raheem (the Especially Merciful), as Allah intended to combine both attributes. His general attribute is mercy, and His renewed and continuous attribute is also mercy. He is the Lord of all worlds, the Master of the worldly realm, and the Master of the Day of Judgment in the Hereafter. He is the Owner of everything. From this understanding, we turn to Him with the supplication for guidance to the Straight Path. This supplication represents the central theme and the focal point of light in Surah Al-Fatiha.