Quran
Al-Mulk (Surah Al-Mulk)
Al-Mulk
The 67th chapter of the Quran (30 verses), also called Tabarak. A Meccan surah on Allah's sovereignty that, by hadith, intercedes for and protects its reciter.
What is Surah Al-Mulk?
Surah Al-Mulk is the 67th chapter of the Quran, a Meccan surah of 30 verses, also known by its opening word Tabarak ("Blessed is He"). It proclaims that all dominion (mulk) belongs to Allah, who created death and life as a test, and who fashioned the seven heavens in perfect order.
Themes and Content
The surah is a meditation on Allah's sovereignty and the believer's accountability. It invites the reader to gaze at the flawless sky and search in vain for any fault in creation, points to the birds held aloft by none but the Most Merciful, and warns of the regret of those who denied the truth and ignored the warners. It closes with a striking question: if your water were to sink away into the earth, who then could bring you flowing water? — a reminder of total dependence on Allah.
Virtues
- The Prophet ﷺ said there is a surah of thirty verses that "interceded for a man until he was forgiven, and it is Tabarakal-ladhi biyadihil-mulk" (Tirmidhi 2891, Abu Dawud 1400).
- It is also reported to be "the preventer / the protector" that guards its reciter from the punishment of the grave (Tirmidhi 2890).
When and Why it is Recited
Many Muslims make a habit of reciting Surah Al-Mulk every night before sleep, following the Prophet's practice, seeking its protection and intercession. Its thirty verses are short and memorable, making it one of the most widely memorised surahs after the short chapters. Reflecting on its meaning deepens awe of Allah's power and gratitude for His countless blessings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Al-Mulk recited before sleep?
Because of authentic reports that the Prophet ﷺ would not sleep until he had recited it, and that it protects its reciter. Making it a nightly habit combines following the Sunnah with seeking protection and a meaningful end to the day.
What does "Tabarak" mean?
Tabarakal-ladhi means "Blessed and Exalted is He" — the surah's opening, from which it takes its second name. It expresses that Allah is the source of all blessing and abundant good, and that all dominion rests in His hand.
Etymology & origin
Al-Mulk (الملك), "the Dominion / Sovereignty", from the root M-L-K, names the surah after its central theme: that all kingship belongs to Allah ("Blessed is He in whose hand is the dominion"). It is also widely called Tabarak after its first word.
References
- Quran:
- 67:1, 67:2, 67:3, 67:13, 67:30
- Hadith:
- Tirmidhi 2891 / Abu Dawud 1400 (a surah of 30 verses interceded until its reciter was forgiven: Tabarak); Tirmidhi 2890 (Al-Mulk is the protector from the punishment of the grave); Bukhari (the Prophet would not sleep until reciting it)
Related terms
Al-Muta'ali
The Most Exalted — high above any deficiency, partner or comparison.
Malik-ul-Mulk
The Owner of All Sovereignty — the absolute owner who gives kingdom to whom He wills.
Surah
A chapter of the Quran. The Quran contains 114 surahs of varying length, from Al-Baqarah (286 verses) to Al-Kawthar (3 verses), each with its own name and theme.
Tilawah
The act of reciting the Quran aloud with reflection and proper rules. It is itself an act of worship, with each letter recited earning multiplied rewards.
Ya-Sin (Surah Ya-Sin)
The 36th chapter of the Quran (83 verses), known as the "Heart of the Quran". A Meccan surah on resurrection, divine signs, and the truth of the Messengers.