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All praise is to Allah, Lord of Mercy, Giver of Mercy.

I’ve started studying Surah Al-Kahf and am loving it so far! As I continue to learn I will share more of my insights inshallah (God Willing).

This surah contains four main stories, the first being about a group of young men who sought refuge in a cave to escape persecution. When they finally emerged, hundreds of years had passed.

Allah Most High says:

إِذْ أَوَى ٱلْفِتْيَةُ إِلَى ٱلْكَهْفِ فَقَالُوا۟ رَبَّنَآ ءَاتِنَا مِن لَّدُنكَ رَحْمَةًۭ وَهَيِّئْ لَنَا مِنْ أَمْرِنَا رَشَدًۭا

When the young men sought refuge in the cave and said ‘Our Lord, grant us Your mercy, and find us a good way out of our ordeal’ (18:10)

فَضَرَبْنَا عَلَىٰٓ ءَاذَانِهِمْ فِى ٱلْكَهْفِ سِنِينَ عَدَدًۭا

We sealed their ears [with sleep] in the cave for years (18:11)

The young men prayed for a way out, and we might assume their du’as to be answered in ways we understand—such as protection or the ability to move undetected. Yet, Allah’s response went far beyond human comprehension. He put them to sleep for centuries, demonstrating His divine wisdom and power.

Imagine asking The Creator for something and you get knocked out for centuries-it’s almost humorous! But it also reflects a profound reality. Often, we ask Allah for something specific, only to receive far more than we could ever envision for ourselves. Such is the mercy and greatness of Allah, The King of all Kings.

Peace & blessings upon the Nabi of Allah.