Is it obvious that you have a 'Master'? Is it clear to you that all of humankind has a 'Master'? Is there another 'Master' in your life...  another person... your money, your car, your house... your desires, your wants? Are you a master over them or are they a master over you? 

Today, become the master of one thing in your life by recognizing that Allah is your 'Master'.

Muslim American Society

We are affected by waswas more than we actually realize; the constant negative voice in our head every single day that starts small but keeps getting bigger and bigger as time goes by captures our minds and turns into feelings of being unsafe, low self-esteem, and shaky tawakul. The simplest and most powerful protection is given to us in the form of this beautiful surah. Alhamdulillah.

This Surah is indeed for all of us who unknowingly struggle with the whispers of the evil. Having firm faith and praying with sincerity and devotion can very well reduce bad thoughts. One would deeply reflect on this Surah as it touches the heart of every muslim who struggles yet still remains steadfast in his faith. May Allah give us patience, and relief from the whispers of the unseen evil. May Allah protect us from the evil of this World and within ourselves. May Allah bless us, keep guiding us and never leave us even for a blink of an eye. 

Who would’ve thought by re-reading this surah (slowly this time), trying to understand its meaning helps me gain new knowledge and perspective? I can’t count on how many times I’ve recited this surah in my prayers with little understanding of Allah’s message. One fascinating piece of information I’ve discovered today is how three different words can have the same meaning but different connotation. In the first three verses, Allah said to seek refuge from Him by referring to Himself with the word ملك ,ربب and اله. In general, this verse is about seeking internal refuge from the whispers of evils. It looked ‘harmless’ yet extremely dangerous. 

The word ربب means Lord of humankind that makes me feel like Allah is always there for us, who treats us well and we can feel His love by everything that He had blessed upon us. 

The word ملك means that Allah owns and has power over everything in this universe that somehow makes me feel safe and secure. I know Allah is the only One who can help me if I ever in difficulty. Why would I seek help from something else?

Lastly, the word اله means Allah is the One we should serve, worship and adore. I believe by doing so makes me sure and confident that Allah is the only One I should seek refuge from and I want to know more about Him by reading the Quran and doing what is told. 

Allahuakbar. Just how many times He mentions in al-Quran to seek refuge only in Him but nobody else for He is beyond the whole thing ever existed. I told my mom a few days ago that I used to look for concrete and living answer to my problems without considering what Allah said in al-Quran. But, now I know the only solution is by submitting yourself to Him and pray that he helps and guides you through it. Now, it is time for everyone to believe that nothing can help us except for Allah. May Allah forgive me for being reckless and guide us towards the straight path.

I know Allah will understand you for trying to find answers without relying on him and he will as always forgive you as he does for everyone in the universe 