The Surah that has two Bismillah ("Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem" - "In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful") is Surah Al-Naml (The Ant).
This unique feature of Surah Al-Naml has been a subject of curiosity and interpretation amongst scholars.
Here's a breakdown of why and where the second Bismillah appears in the Surah:
- The First Bismillah: This is the standard opening Bismillah that appears at the beginning of every Surah in the Quran except for Surah At-Tawbah.
- The Second Bismillah: This Bismillah appears at the beginning of verse 30 of Surah Al-Naml. This verse begins with the phrase: "Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem. Qul Huwa Allahu Ahad." ("In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Say, 'He is Allah, the One.'")
Why Two Bismillah?
There are various interpretations regarding the presence of two Bismillah in Surah Al-Naml:
- Emphasis on Divine Guidance: Some scholars believe that the second Bismillah emphasizes the importance of seeking guidance from Allah in all matters, especially when facing challenges or difficult situations.
- Transition to a New Theme: Others suggest that the second Bismillah marks a transition to a new theme within the Surah. The verse that follows the second Bismillah introduces the concept of Allah's oneness and His power.
- Recitation and Memorization: Some believe that the repetition of Bismillah facilitates recitation and memorization of the Surah.
Conclusion
The presence of two Bismillah in Surah Al-Naml is a unique feature of the Quran that has been interpreted in various ways. While the exact reason remains a matter of scholarly discussion, it serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking Allah's guidance and recognizing His power.
