Wish to get closer to the Quran? Begin with Surah Mulk. The 67th chapter of the Quran, Surah Al-Mulk is a powerful surah filled with wisdom, protection, and spirituality. It’s typically one of the first chapters encouraged to memorize because of its abundant rewards and the peace it brings to the heart.
Let’s take a closer look at why Surah Mulk holds such a special place in the hearts of Muslims.
What Is Surah Mulk?
Surah Mulk, also known as “The Sovereignty”, is a 30-verse chapter revealed in Makkah. It is about the greatness of Allah’s creation and a reminder of His dominion over life, death, and everything in between. The surah evokes contemplation, accountability, and a firm sense of the Hereafter.
Why Is Surah Mulk So Important?
The excellence of Surah Mulk is proven through numerous authentic hadiths discussing its importance and benefits.
Protection from the Punishment of the Grave
Among the most commonly known excellence of Surah AlMulk is that it serves as a protector in the grave:
The Prophet ﷺ said: “There is a surah in the Qur’an which contains thirty Ayat which kept interceding for a man until his sins are forgiven. This Surah is ‘Blessed is He in Whose Hand is the dominion’ [i.e., Surah Mulk].” — [Jami` at-Tirmidhi 2891 – Sahih]
Intercession on the Day of Judgment
The Prophet ﷺ also said:
“A surah from the Qur’an containing thirty verses will intercede for a man until he is forgiven. It is ‘Tabarak alladhi bi yadihi’l-mulk.’” — [Sunan Abu Dawood 1400 – Hasan]
These accounts tell us how impactful Surah Mulk can be in shaping your life after death, and it is among the most recited chapters in a Muslim’s everyday life.
When Should We Recite Surah Mulk?
Knowing when to recite Surah Mulk can enable you to benefit from its blessings and protection in the best possible way. The best time to recite this miraculous surah is nighttime, before going to bed, as encouraged by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
The Sunnah of Reciting Surah Mulk at Night
It was the regular practice of the Prophet ﷺ to recite Surah Mulk every night before sleeping. This nightly ritual not only protect us from the punishment of the grave but also serves as a means of spiritual reflection and closeness to Allah.
Abdullah ibn Mas’ud (Allah be pleased with him) reported: “Whoever recites Surah al-Mulk every night, Allah will protect him from the torment of the grave.” — [Sunan al-Kubrá by Al-Nasā’ī 10547 – Hasan]
In another narration, the Companion added:
“We used to call it al-Mani‘ah (the protector) in the time of the Messenger of Allah ﷺ.”— [Mustadrak al-Haakim 3839 – Sahih]
This shows the consistency of the Prophet ﷺ and his companions in reciting Surah Mulk nightly for its protective benefits.
Best Time to Recite Surah Mulk: After Isha or Before Sleeping
To follow the Sunnah, the best time to recite Surah AlMulk is:
After Isha prayer
Right before sleeping
By doing so, you align your night routine with the Prophet’s ﷺ Sunnah and gain protection for your soul during sleep.
Make a habit of reciting Surah Mulk regularly, begin reading from a Mushaf or listening to a recitation every single night before sleeping until you’ve memorized the entire Surah.
Can You Recite Surah Mulk at Other Times?
Yes, you can! While night is the recommended time based on hadiths, you are not restricted to it. Surah Mulk can be recited at any time of the day for dhikr, reflection, or studying. Many also recite it in breaks or while traveling so as to make the most of the day.
But for maximum spiritual impact and to follow the Sunnah, attempt to recite Surah Al-Mulk at night.
Benefits of Surah Mulk
Studying and memorizing Surah Mulk offers numerous spiritual and practical benefits. Whether you are looking for protection in the grave, intercession on the Day of Judgment, or just a way to strengthen your bond with the Quran, Surah Al Mulk offers all that and more.
Let’s explore the most significant benefits of Surah Al Mulk:
1. Protection from the Punishment of the Grave
Among the most widely recognized and powerful advantages of Surah Mulk is that it is a grave protection. The Prophet ﷺ said:
“There is a Surah in the Quran with thirty verses. It interceded for a man until he was forgiven. It is: ‘Blessed is He in Whose Hand is the dominion.’” — [Jami` at-Tirmidhi 2891 – Sahih]
This means that reciting Surah Mulk every night is not just a spiritual habit, it’s insurance in the hereafter.
2. Intercession on the Day of Judgment
Surah Mulk will intercede on behalf of its reciter on the Day of Judgment until they are forgiven.
Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported:
“A surah in the Quran, which contains thirty verses, intercedes for a man until his sins are forgiven…” — [Sunan Abu Dawood 1400 – Hasan]
This points to the strength and mercy Allah has placed in this surah for the good of believers in the Hereafter.
3. Inspires Self-examination
Surah Mulk calls upon the reader to ponder the wonders of creation, the purpose, and the certainty of death and resurrection. This reflection strengthens one’s faith (iman) and remembrance of Allah.
For instance, the following verse invites believers to think deeply and build spiritual awareness.:
“Do you not see how He created the seven heavens one above another…”(Surah Mulk 67:3)
4. Easy to Memorize and Apply Consistently
Consisting of only 30 verses, Surah Mulk is also one of the easiest surahs to memorize. This renders it ideal for beginners who want to build a strong daily habit of Quran recitation and for families who want to encourage children to engage with the Quran on a daily basis.
5. Builds a Stronger Night Routine
Reciting Surah Al Mulk as a bed routine establishes spiritual consistency. It is a calming, protective, and faith-strengthening bedtime routine.
How Long Does It Take to Read Surah Mulk?
The question most Muslims ask is, how long does it take to read Surah Mulk? Luckily, Surah Al-Mulk is not long and takes little time to read, so it is not hard to incorporate into your daily routine.
For an average reader, Surah Mulk takes about 3 to 5 minutes to recite fully.
If you’re still learning or reading slowly with Tajweed, it might take a little longer, around 5 to 7 minutes, which is perfectly fine.
For experienced reciters, the time might be closer to 2 to 3 minutes.
Tips for Efficient Recitation
Start by reading slowly and focusing on correct pronunciation (Tajweed).
Gradually pick up speed as you become more familiar with the verses.
You may also enhance your speed and fluency by listening to a good reciter.
Reciting Surah Mulk at night is a spiritually rewarding habit that will not take much time but yield great benefits.
Ready to Win the Benefits of Surah Mulk? Start Now!
Unlock the gates of spiritual blessings and protection as vowed in Surah Mulk by making it a part of your life. Regardless of whether you are a beginner or wish to master the recitation, consistent practice brings you closer to Allah’s guidance and mercy.
Don’t wait—advance your Quran journey today with Tareequl Jannah!
