The 4 Quls Of The Quran: Understanding & Reciting All Quls in English
The 4 Quls of Quran hold a special place in Islamic tradition, offering protection, spiritual clarity, and a firm declaration of faith. These four surahs, often called the four qul Shareef, are recited by Muslims worldwide for their profound meanings and the peace they bring to the heart. Each Qul addresses different aspects of human existence, providing a complete shield against various spiritual and worldly harms. Whether you are familiar with the 3 quls or the full 4kul, understanding their significance in English and their transliteration can deepen your connection to these sacred words.
This guide gives you the Arabic text, easy English transliteration and meaning of every surah, the virtues mentioned in authentic hadith, and the best times to recite them. In Urdu and Roman Urdu they are also written as Char Qul, and you will see spellings such as 4 Kul or 4 Khul online.
What Does Qul Mean in Arabic?
Qul (قُلْ) is a real Arabic word. It is the command form of the verb qala, "to say", and it means "Say". In these surahs Allah is instructing the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to announce a truth openly: the oneness of Allah, the rejection of shirk, and the need to seek refuge in Him alone.
The word is built on the three-letter Arabic root ق-و-ل (q-w-l), which carries the idea of speech and declaration. Because it is a command, it also teaches every reader that these words are not private thoughts. They are statements to be spoken aloud.
In Urdu and Roman Urdu the word Qul is also used as a name for the four surahs themselves. When people say "Qul Shareef", they are using the respectful title Shareef (noble) for the Quls, in the same way they say Quran Shareef.
What Are the Four Quls in Islam?
The four Quls are four short surahs near the end of the Quran. In the order they appear in the Mushaf, they are:
- Surah Al-Kafirun (chapter 109)
- Surah Al-Ikhlas (chapter 112)
- Surah Al-Falaq (chapter 113)
- Surah An-Nas (chapter 114)
Al-Falaq and An-Nas together are called Al-Mu'awwidhatayn, "the two surahs of refuge". Add Al-Ikhlas and you have the 3 Quls, the group the Prophet ﷺ recited for protection each morning, evening and night. Adding Al-Kafirun gives the 4 Quls.
The name "four Quls" is a customary grouping, popular across South Asia and in the way children are first taught. It is not a technical term from the early books of tafsir, but every surah in it has its own virtue in authentic hadith, which are covered below.
How Many Quls Are in the Quran?
The answer depends on what you are counting.
- Four Quls is the popular grouping taught to children and recited daily: Al-Kafirun, Al-Ikhlas, Al-Falaq and An-Nas.
- Five surahs begin with the word Qul. The four above, plus Surah Al-Jinn (chapter 72), which opens with "Qul uhiya ilayya" ("Say, it has been revealed to me").
- The word Qul itself appears more than 300 times across the Quran, often to introduce an answer, an instruction or a declaration that the Prophet ﷺ was told to deliver.
So when someone asks how many Quls there are, the short answer is four in the traditional set, even though five surahs start with the same word.
The 4 Quls in Arabic, Transliteration and English
Each table below reads verse by verse. Use the Arabic for recitation, the transliteration to follow the sounds, and the English to understand what you are saying.
Surah Al-Ikhlas: The Declaration Of Oneness
Surah Al-Ikhlas, known as the "Purity of Faith," is a powerful declaration of Allah's oneness. It is one of the four Quranic verses that emphasize Tawheed, the core belief in God's oneness.
Surah Ikhlas In Roman English
Qul Huwa Allahu Ahad,Allahu Samad,Lam yalid wa lam yoolad,Wa lam yakul lahu kufuwan ahad
Surah Ikhlas Translation In English
(Say, He is Allah, [who is] One),(Allah, the Eternal Refuge),(He neither begets nor is born),(Nor is there to Him any equivalent)
This Surah Ikhlas translation captures the essence of monotheism, making it a crucial part of Islamic teachings.
Surah Al-Falaq: Seeking Protection From External Evils
Surah Al-Falaq, another of the 4 kul Quran, is a supplication seeking Allah's protection from all external evils, including darkness, witchcraft, and jealousy. Reciting these four Quls in English or Arabic provides a spiritual shield against harm.
Surah Al-Falaq In Roman English
Qul A'oodhu bi rabbil-falaq,Min sharri ma khalaq,Wa min sharri ghaasiqin izhaa waqab,Wa min sharrin naffasathi fil 'uqad,Wa min sharri khaasidin izhaa khasad
Surah Al Falaq Transliteration In English
(Say, I seek refuge in the Lord of daybreak),(From the evil of that which He created),(And from the evil of darkness when it settles),(And from the evil of the blowers in knots),(And from the evil of an envier when he envies)
The Surah Falaq in English powerfully reminds us of the daily importance of seeking divine protection. The Surah Al Falaq transliteration makes it easier for non-Arabic speakers to recite this significant surah.
Surah An-Naas: Protection from Inner Evils
Surah An-Naas is the final surah in the four qul of the Quran. It focuses on seeking refuge from internal evils, such as the whisperings of Shaytan (Satan) and negative thoughts.
Surah An-Naas (4 Qul in Roman English)
Qul A'oozhu birabbin-naas,Malikin-naas,Ilaahin-naas,Min sharril waswaasil khannaas,Allazhee yuwaswisu fee sudoorin-naas,Minal-jinnati wan-naas
Surah An-Naas Transliteration In English
(Say, I seek refuge in the Lord of mankind),(The Sovereign of mankind),(The God of mankind),(From the evil of the whisperer who withdraws),(Who whispers in the breasts of mankind),(Among jinn and mankind)
The four Quls in English highlight Allah's comprehensive protection against external and internal dangers. Reciting this surah can help maintain spiritual purity and peace.
Surah Al-Kafirun: The Rejection Of False Beliefs
Surah Al-Kafirun, one of the three Quls frequently recited, emphasizes the clear distinction between Muslims' beliefs and those of disbelievers. It is a declaration of complete rejection of all forms of polytheism and disbelief.
Surah Al-Kafirun (4 Qul in Roman English)
Qul yaa ayyuhal kaafiroon,Laa a'budu maa ta'budoon,Wa laa antum 'aabidoona maa a'bud,Wa laa ana 'aabidum maa 'abattum,Wa laa antum 'aabidoona maa a'bud,Lakum deenukum wa liya deen
Surah Kafirun (four qul english transliteration)
(Say, O disbelievers),(I do not worship what you worship),(Nor are you worshippers of what I worship),(Nor will I be a worshipper of what you worship),(Nor will you be worshippers of what I worship),(For you is your religion, and for me is my religion)
The Surah Kafirun transliteration is crucial for non-Arabic speakers who want to recite this surah accurately. It's a powerful reminder of the importance of steadfastness in one's faith.
The Benefits Of Reciting The four qul In English
Reciting the 4 Kul in English not only offers numerous spiritual and protective benefits but also purifies the heart and soul. Moreover, these surahs collectively protect against both seen and unseen harm. Whether you are reciting the4 kuls in English or using transliteration, they are a source of immense blessings. For more insights on the benefits of Quranic recitations, visit AwwalQuran’s guide on Quranic benefits.
The Rewards of Reciting the Four Quls:
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) highlighted the great protection offered by reciting the 4 Quls (or 4kul Shareef), which include Surah Al-Ikhlas, Surah Al-Falaq, and Surah An-Nas. In a hadith, the Prophet (PBUH) said, “O Ibn Aabis, shall I tell you about the best protection used by those who seek it?” Ibn Aabis replied, "Yes, O Messenger of Allah." The Prophet (PBUH) then recommended, “Say, I seek refuge in the Lord of the daybreak,” and “Say, I seek refuge in the Lord of mankind,” referring to these surahs. [Abu Dawood]
Aisha (RA) narrated that every night before sleeping, the Prophet (PBUH) would recite Qul Shareef—Surah Al-Ikhlas, Surah Al-Falaq, and Surah An-Nas. He would blow over his hands and then rub them over his body, beginning with his head, face, and the front of his body, repeating this three times. [Bukhari]
Abu Sa’eed reported hearing another man reciting Qul Huwa Allaahu Ahad (Surah Al-Ikhlas) repeatedly. When he informed the Prophet (PBUH) about it, the Prophet said, "By the One in Whose hand is my soul, it is equivalent to one-third of the Quran." [Bukhari 6643]. Additionally, reciting these four Qul three times each morning and evening serves as a complete protection for the day. [Abu Dawood, Tirmidhi]
How To Incorporate All Quls Into Daily Life
Making the four Quls a part of your daily routine is easy and highly beneficial. First, start your day by reciting the 4kul (4 Khul) for protection, and then end your day with them for peace of mind. Additionally, memorizing the four Quls in English translation or transliteration can make incorporating them into your prayers and daily reflections easier.
Power of the 4 Quls in Overcoming Difficulties
The 4 kuls—Surah Al-Kafirun, Al-Ikhlas, Al-Falaq, and An-Nas—hold immense significance in the lives of Muslims. These four short but powerful chapters of the Quran provide spiritual strength and guidance in overcoming difficulties. Reciting the 4 Khul shareef is known to bring peace of mind, protect against harm, and provide solutions to many challenges in life.
Prophet Muhammad (SAW) encouraged Muslims to recite these surahs frequently, especially during moments of fear or hardship. Each of the 4 Quls carries a unique message: rejection of shirk (Al-Kafirun), affirmation of Allah’s Oneness (Al-Ikhlas), seeking refuge from external evils (Al-Falaq), and protection from internal harm (An-Nas).
If you’re looking to understand the 4 qul in quran in English pdf or memorize the charo qul in English, know that these surahs are an essential part of connecting with Allah and finding peace amidst chaos.
Hadith References on the Virtues of the 4 Quls
Authentic Hadith highlight the virtues of the 4 Quls of Quran dua. According to a narration, Prophet Muhammad (SAW) recited these surahs as a form of protection before sleeping. He also advised Muslims to regularly recite the 4 qul shareef in their morning and evening adhkar (remembrances).
The 4kul act as a shield against evil, whether it be physical harm, jealousy, or spiritual weaknesses. One Hadith emphasizes the protective nature of Surah Al-Falaq and Surah An-Nas, also known as the Mu’awwidhatayn. Prophet Muhammad (SAW) described these surahs as the best form of protection against envy and harm.
For those seeking comprehensive resources, you can find the 4 qul surah in English pdf to deepen your understanding and improve recitation.
Prophet Muhammad SAW's Teachings on the 4 Quls
The teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) underscore the immense importance of the 4 qul dua. He not only recited these surahs himself but also instructed his companions to use them as a means of seeking Allah's protection and blessings.
The Prophet (SAW) would often recite the 4 Quls of Quran in various situations, such as before sleeping, during illness, or when facing challenges. He emphasized the power of these chapters in safeguarding one’s faith and well-being.
For those wondering, what are the 4 kuls? These are four powerful chapters from the Quran that summarize core Islamic beliefs and provide a complete spiritual defense mechanism. Memorizing and regularly reciting the charo qul in English is a practical way to follow the Sunnah and enhance one’s spiritual connection with Allah.
When and How to Recite the Quls?
The 4 Qul refers to four powerful short surahs of the Quran that begin with the word “Qul” (Say). These surahs are commonly recited by Muslims for protection, faith purification, and closeness to Allah. Because of their importance, parents often teach the 4 Quls of Quran to children at an early age.
When Should the 4 Qul Be Recited?
Best times to recite
- Morning and evening, for example after Fajr and after Maghrib, as part of your daily adhkar.
- Before sleeping, following the Prophet's nightly practice described above.
- After each obligatory prayer. Uqbah ibn Amir reported that the Prophet ﷺ told him to recite the two surahs of refuge after every prayer (Sunan Abi Dawud 1523).
- In moments of fear, worry or illness, with trust in Allah.
- With children, as a short daily habit that builds a love of the Quran.
There is no fixed number that you must reach. The report on morning and evening protection mentions three times, and many Muslims recite them once, three times or more, depending on the occasion. Reciting the 4 Quls regularly helps strengthen faith and protects against harm by Allah’s will.
How to Recite the 4 Qul Correctly
To gain full benefit, the 4 Qul surahs should be recited with:
- Correct pronunciation (Makharij)
- Proper Tajweed rules
- Calm focus and intention
Many learners recite the 4 Qul in English transliteration at the beginning, but it is always better to learn the Arabic recitation properly, especially for children.
For beginners and non-Arabic speakers:
- 4 Qul in English translation helps with understanding
- 4 Qul in English transliteration helps with pronunciation
- However, Arabic recitation with Tajweed is essential for accuracy
Parents are encouraged to guide children beyond transliteration and toward correct Quran reading.
How To Teaching the 4kul to kids
Children learn the 4 Quls of Quran faster when:
- Lessons are short and consistent
- A qualified teacher corrects mistakes
- Tajweed is introduced gently
- Meanings are explained simply
This builds love for the Quran and creates a strong Islamic foundation from a young age.
Conclusion
The 4 Quls of Quran are not only powerful tools for spiritual protection but also for growth. Thus, understanding the 4 khul (qul 4) in English and learning their transliteration can deepen your connection to these sacred texts so that you can benefit from their protective power. Regardless of whether you call them 4 khul or char qul shareef, these surahs hold great significance in Islamic practice and should be recited consistently to maintain spiritual well-being. For those looking to keep these important surahs handy, you can easily access a 4 Qul Shareef in PDF to have them available anytime.
FAQs
What are the virtues of reciting the 4 Quls?
The virtues of reciting the kul 4 include protection from evil whispers of Shaytan and harmful envy. Reciting these surahs also safeguards against spiritual and physical ailments.
How many times should the four qul be recited?
The 4 qul shareef are often recited thrice, five times, or more, but the number is not required. It can be recited as many times as one feels necessary.
For what purpose is the recitation of the four qul done?
The 4 kul shareef are commonly recited to seek protection from the evil eye, witchcraft, and all forms of harm. Additionally, they bring spiritual peace and blessings.
What is the proper way to recite the four qul?
It is highly beneficial to recite the four qul daily. They should be recited after performing ablution, before sleeping at night, and after waking up in the morning. For proper recitation methods, visit AwwalQuran’s recitation guide.
Why is the recitation of the 4 kul important?
Reciting the four qul shareef is crucial for protection against shirk (polytheism), witchcraft, and the evil eye. These surahs are recited to safeguard oneself from harmful influences.
What are the four qul?
The 4 qul shareef are specific surahs in the Holy Quran: Surah Al-Ikhlas, Surah Al-Falaq, Surah An-Naas, and Surah Al-Kafirun.
