Quran 2:255
Al-Baqarah 2 :255
Allah! There is no deity except Him, the Ever-Living, the Sustainer of existence. Neither drowsiness overtakes Him nor sleep. To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth. Who is it that can intercede with Him except by His permission? He knows what is before them and what will be after them, and they encompass not a thing of His knowledge except for what He wills. His Kursi extends over the heavens and the earth, and their preservation tires Him not. And He is the Most High, the Most Great.
— Sahih International
Context
Ayat al-Kursi (The Throne Verse), considered the greatest verse of the Quran.
Quran 2:255 (Ayat al-Kursi)
The Throne Verse (آية الكرسي, Āyat al-Kursī)—considered by many scholars to be the greatest verse of the Quran.
Significance
The Prophet Muhammad said this is the greatest verse of the Quran. It comprehensively describes Allah’s:
- Oneness (tawhid): “There is no deity except Him”
- Eternal nature: “Ever-Living”
- Sustaining power: “Sustainer of existence”
- Transcendence: Neither drowsiness nor sleep
- Sovereignty: All in heavens and earth belongs to Him
- Knowledge: Encompasses all things
- Majesty: His Kursi (throne/dominion) extends over all
Usage in Muslim Practice
Ayat al-Kursi is recited:
- After each obligatory prayer
- Before sleep for protection
- For seeking blessings and safety
- In times of difficulty
Theological Themes
The verse encapsulates Islamic monotheism, emphasizing God’s:
- Absolute uniqueness
- Self-sufficiency
- Complete sovereignty
- Unlimited knowledge
- Eternal nature