When is the Time to Start and End Reading Surat Al-Kahfi?

Muslims are encouraged to recite Surat Al-Kahfi, the 18th chapter of the Quran, on Fridays as a highly recommended practice, known as a Sunnah, of Prophet Muhammad SAW.

Islamic scholars explain that the optimal period for reciting this chapter spans from the evening before Friday until the end of the day on Friday. Specifically, this timeframe begins at sunset on Thursday and concludes at sunset on Friday.

This interpretation is derived from reconciling various Islamic traditions and narrations. As noted by Al-Hafizh Ibnu Hajar in his work 'Al-Amali,' some traditions refer to "the day of Friday," while others mention "the night of Friday." To harmonize these accounts, scholars understand that the intention encompasses both the day and the night. Imam al-Munawi, in his book 'Faidh Al-Qadir,' further elaborates on this, stating that the recommendation applies to both the night and the day of Friday, a view also supported by Imam al-Shafi'i.

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As noted by Al-Hafizh Ibnu Hajar in 'Al-Amali,' some traditions refer to 'the day of Friday,' while others mention 'the night of Friday.' Both accounts can be reconciled by understanding that the intended period includes the night of Friday and the day of Friday.