Surah At-Tariq (86:4)
إِن كُلُّ نَفْسٍ لَّمَّا عَلَيْهَا حَافِظٌ ﴿٤﴾
English Transliteration
In kullu nafsin lammaa ‘alayhaa haafiz.
English Translation (Saheeh International)
“There is no soul but that it has over it a protector.”
Bengali Translation (বাংলা অনুবাদ)
(৪) «প্রত্যেক জীবের উপরই সংরক্ষক রয়েছে।»
Reciting this ayah carries deep spiritual significance for safety, peace, and protection:
Divine Shield Against Unseen Harms: Reciting Surah At-Tariq (and specifically verse 4) reminds the believer that no disease, harm, evil eye (Ayn), or demonic interference (Shayatin) can touch a person unless decreed by Allah, because Allah has placed a guardian over every soul.
Relief from Fear and Anxiety: When experiencing fear, loneliness, or panic due to health concerns or nighttime anxiety, reciting this verse instills inner tranquility (Sakinah) by reinforcing that you are never left unprotected.
Daily Adhkar and Protection: Classical scholars recommend reciting this verse alongside other protective verses (Ayat al-Hifz) when making Dua for protection over children, home, and body.
🤲 Dua / Ruqyah
Classical mufassireen (Quranic commentators) explain this verse in two primary interconnected ways:
- Protection from Calamities (Guardian Angels)
Tafsir Ibn Kathir: Imam Ibn Kathir explains that this verse means every human soul has guardian angels assigned by Allah to protect them from harms and calamities until their appointed time (Ajl) arrives. He links this verse to Surah Ar-Ra'd (13:11):"For him [each person], there are angels in succession, before and behind him. They guard him by the command of Allah."
Tafsir Al-Qurtubi: Imam Al-Qurtubi notes that Allah assigns guardian angels over every human being who shield them from harmful spirits (Shayatin) and unseen dangers, just as a guard protects a valuable treasure.
- Recording of Actions and Preservation of the Soul
Tafsir At-Tabari: Imam Al-Tabari explains that the word "Haafiz" (حَافِظٌ) also refers to the noble recording angels (Kiraman Katibin) who watch over every soul, recording every deed, word, and thought for the Day of Judgment.
Tafsir Ma'arif al-Qur'an: Mufti Muhammad Shafi explains that Allah Himself is the ultimate Hafiz (Preserver), keeping watch over every creation and maintaining the balance of life.