Surah An-Nas – Meaning, Revelation, and Powerful Protection Against Evil

Surah An-Nas (The Mankind) is a Madani Surah consisting of 6 short but deeply powerful verses. It forms part of the Mu’awwadhatain — the two final chapters of the Qur’an revealed together, offering divine protection from evil, black magic, and hidden harm. These verses were revealed during a moment of spiritual crisis in the life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, making them a source of both spiritual and physical healing for all believers.

🕋 Preliminary Remarks

Surah An-Nas and its companion Surah Al-Falaq were revealed during the same event. Hafiz Ibn-ul-Qayyim explains that both Surahs provide unparalleled protection and are essential for every believer. He writes:

“Their blessings and benefits are abundant. They are a cure for sorcery, the evil eye, and spiritual or physical calamities. If their reality is truly understood, people will realize they need them more than breath, water, or food.”

✨ Cause of Revelation: Black Magic on the Prophet ﷺ

According to Musnad Ahmad and Sahih Bukhari, a Jewish man cast a magical spell on the Prophet ﷺ by tying knots with strands of his hair and placing them in a well called Dharwan. The Prophet fell ill, experiencing confusion and fatigue. Angel Jibra’il (AS) informed him of the spell and where it was hidden.

When the knots were found and untied — with each verse of Surah Al-Falaq and Surah An-Nas being recited — the Prophet ﷺ was instantly healed. Despite knowing the culprit, the Prophet ﷺ chose forgiveness over retaliation, showing his unmatched mercy.

🧠 Understanding Magic and Its Impact on the Prophet ﷺ

Some may find it surprising that a prophet could be affected by magic. However, Mufti Taqi Usmani and classical scholars explain that prophets are not immune to physical causes, just like they feel heat, cold, or illness. Magic, too, is part of physical reality, and its impact can manifest without compromising the spiritual purity of prophets.

For a deeper explanation, refer to Ma’ariful Qur’an, Volume 1, pages 264–278 (especially p. 276 on “Magic and Prophets”).

🌟 The Virtues of Mu’awwadhatain (Surah Al-Falaq & Surah An-Nas)

📖 Hadith Highlights:

• Sahih Muslim: “Verses were revealed to me tonight, the like of which has never been revealed before.” — Prophet Muhammad ﷺ referring to Surah Al-Falaq and An-Nas.

• Nasa’i & Abu Dawud: The Prophet ﷺ instructed to recite these two Surahs after every salah.

• Sayyidah A’ishah (RA): When the Prophet was sick, he would recite Mu’awwadhatain, blow over his hands, and wipe them across his body.

• On his deathbed, Sayyidah A’ishah did this for him.

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🕊️ Daily Practice for Protection

The Prophet ﷺ and his Companions used to recite Surah Al-Falaq and Surah An-Nas daily:

• Three times in the morning

• Three times in the evening

• Before sleep

• After every prayer (Salah)

These Surahs are a shield against all harm — whether from jinn, mankind, black magic, evil eye, or inner whisperings.

💡 Key Takeaways

• Surah An-Nas teaches us to seek refuge in Allah — the Lord, King, and God of mankind.

• It reminds us of hidden dangers — whispers of Shayṭān and evil forces, both from jinn and humans.

• Regular recitation provides spiritual armor in both this world and the Hereafter.

📘 Conclusion

Surah An-Nas is not just a chapter — it is a weapon, a shield, and a prayer.
Its revelation highlights the reality of unseen harm and how faith and divine words can dissolve even the most destructive spells. Make it a habit to recite Surah An-Nas daily, as the Prophet ﷺ did, and protect your soul, mind, and body from all forms of spiritual harm.

Read Other Surahs 

Surah AL Fatiha

Surah Al Nas 

Surah Al Falaq

Surah Al Ikhlas

Surah Al-Lahab (Surah Al-Masad)