Quick answer: Ayatul Kursi (the Throne Verse) is verse 255 of Surah Al-Baqarah — described in authentic narrations as the greatest verse in the Quran. It declares Allah’s absolute sovereignty, His perfect knowledge, and His guardianship over all creation. Muslims commonly recite it after each prayer and before sleep.
What is Ayatul Kursi?
Ayatul Kursi means “the Verse of the Throne (Kursi).” It is a single, magnificent verse found in the second chapter of the Quran, Surah Al-Baqarah. Despite being one verse, it contains some of the deepest statements about who Allah is.
What does Ayatul Kursi mean?
The verse affirms that there is no god but Allah, the Ever-Living (al-Hayy), the Sustainer of all (al-Qayyum); that He is never overtaken by drowsiness or sleep; that everything in the heavens and earth belongs to Him; that no one can intercede without His permission; that His knowledge encompasses all things; and that His Kursi extends over the heavens and the earth, yet guarding them never wearies Him.
Why is it so beloved?
The Prophet Muhammad is reported to have taught that Ayatul Kursi is the greatest verse in the Quran. Its power lies in how completely it describes Allah’s greatness, knowledge and care, which is why it holds such a cherished place in daily worship.
When should you recite Ayatul Kursi?
It is a well-established practice to recite Ayatul Kursi after each of the five daily prayers, and before going to sleep. In an authentic narration, the one who recites it before sleep is under Allah’s protection through the night. Reciting it with understanding makes it far more meaningful.
How to learn Ayatul Kursi correctly
Because it is recited so often, it is worth learning Ayatul Kursi with correct Tajweed and understanding. Listen to a skilled reciter, repeat until it flows, and have a teacher check your pronunciation — small errors are easy to fix early.
Frequently asked questions
What is Ayatul Kursi?
Ayatul Kursi is verse 255 of Surah Al-Baqarah, known as the Throne Verse, describing Allah’s sovereignty, knowledge and guardianship over all creation.
Where is Ayatul Kursi in the Quran?
It is the 255th verse of Surah Al-Baqarah, the second chapter of the Quran.
When should I recite Ayatul Kursi?
It is commonly recited after each of the five daily prayers and before sleep; reciting it before sleep is associated with Allah’s protection through the night.
Why is Ayatul Kursi so important?
In authentic narration the Prophet described it as the greatest verse in the Quran, because of how completely it describes Allah.
Related reading
- The meaning of Surah Al-Fatihah
- The meaning of Surah Al-Mulk
- Short surahs every Muslim should memorise
Want to learn to recite this surah correctly, with meaning? Book 3 free trial classes with a certified teacher.