Surah Al-Kawthar — سُورَةُ الْكَوْثَر — is the 108th surah of the Quran and the shortest surah with three verses. It was revealed in response to those who mocked the Prophet ﷺ after the death of his sons, calling him “abtar” — one who is cut off, who will have no legacy. The surah reverses this: it is the mocker who will be cut off; the Prophet ﷺ was given Al-Kawthar — the river of abundance in paradise, the comprehensive good of this world and the next.
The text and meaning
Inna a’tayna kal kawthar — Indeed We have given you Al-Kawthar. Allah ﷻ speaks directly to the Prophet ﷺ and affirms the gift — the river in paradise, the abundant good, the countless blessings. Fasalli li rabbika wanhar — So pray to your Lord and sacrifice. The response to the gift: prayer (salah) and sacrifice (the offering of an animal) — both directed entirely to Allah ﷻ alone. Inna shani’aka huwal abtar — Indeed, your enemy is the one who is cut off. The mockery is reversed: the one who called the Prophet ﷺ cut off is himself cut off — from goodness, from legacy, from Allah’s ﷻ mercy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Al-Kawthar?
Al-Kawthar is a river in paradise given specifically to the Prophet ﷺ. The Prophet ﷺ described it as having banks of gold, its bed of musk and pearls, its water whiter than milk and sweeter than honey. (Muslim 400). Believers will drink from it before entering paradise and never thirst again. The word kawthar itself means vast abundance — encompassing the river and all the comprehensive good Allah ﷻ granted the Prophet ﷺ.
Indeed We have given you Al-Kawthar. Three verses. A direct gift from Allah ﷻ to His Prophet ﷺ — and through him, to every Muslim who will drink from that river.