What is the purpose of the ''seven oft-repeated verses'' (Surah Al-Fatihah) in Islamic prayer?

Surah Al-Fatihah, also known as the “seven oft-repeated verses,” is a fundamental part of Islamic prayer (Salah). It is recited in every rak’ah (unit of prayer) during Salah and is considered the most important Surah in the Quran. The Surah consists of seven verses, and it serves as an introduction to the Quran and a prayer for guidance, mercy, and forgiveness.

There are several purposes of reciting Surah Al-Fatihah during Salah. First and foremost, it serves as a way to praise and glorify Allah, the Almighty. It also serves as a means of seeking Allah's guidance and forgiveness, and as a reminder of one's dependence on Allah. Additionally, it helps to set the tone for the prayer and establish a connection with Allah.

Surah Al-Fatihah is recited during Salah in a specific manner. It is the first Surah recited in every rak’ah and is followed by another Surah from the Quran. This second Surah can be longer or shorter than Surah Al-Fatihah, but it must be recited after it. This is known as the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and is considered an essential part of Salah.

The seven oft-repeated verses, also known as Surah Al-Fatihah, is the first chapter of the Quran and is recited in every prayer. It is a prayer of praise and gratitude to Allah, and it asks for guidance and protection. The purpose of Surah Al-Fatihah is to remind Muslims of their relationship with Allah and to help them focus on Him during prayer.

Surah Al-Fatihah is also a reminder of the importance of seeking guidance from Allah and of relying on Him for help. The first verse of the surah, "In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful," is a declaration of faith in Allah and His attributes. The second verse, "Praise be to Allah, Lord of the Worlds," is a statement of gratitude to Allah for His creation and His blessings. The third verse, "The Most Gracious, the Most Merciful," is a reminder of Allah's mercy and compassion. The fourth verse, "Master of the Day of Judgment," is a reminder of the Day of Judgment and the importance of preparing for it. The fifth verse, "It is You we worship and upon You we call for help," is a declaration of submission to Allah and a request for His help. The sixth verse, "Guide us to the straight path," is a request for guidance from Allah. The seventh verse, "The path of those upon whom You have bestowed favor, not of those who have evoked [Your] anger or of those who are astray," is a request for guidance to the path of those who are righteous and obedient to Allah.

Surah Al-Fatihah is a beautiful and powerful prayer that helps Muslims to connect with Allah and to focus on Him during prayer. It is a reminder of the importance of faith, gratitude, mercy, submission, guidance, and righteousness.