1: The Opening

This initial or prefatory chapter is made up of seven verses from the period which
the Prophet passed in Mecca. It was revealed after The Man Wearing a Cloak
74 and before The Flame 111. The chapter has classical expression, and is simple in wording but full of meaning, which eventually works into our consciousness
as we repeat it dally.
This is the customary invocation used in Islamic ceremonies of all kinds, and
it forms a true prayer, occupying somewhat the same place in Islam as the Lord's
prayer does with Christians. The chapter is often said to contain the essence
of the Qur'an and in 15:VI it is called the Seven Oft-Repeated Verses
This chapter should be read attentively since many Islamic terms are introduced here and thus require explanation, especially as they are repeated daily by
every Muslim. It also bears witness to God's presence everywhere.