Prothom Alo's religion page has published a reflection on the Ashab al-Kahf, the Companions of the Cave described in Surah Al-Kahf. The Quran tells of a few young believers who left behind comfort and privilege to take refuge in a dark cave from a tyrannical king.

Verse 16 records their words: if they took refuge in the cave, their Lord would spread His mercy over them and make their affair easy. Going into a cave with no food and no means of defence might look reckless, the writer notes, but faith measures such choices differently.

In the Quran's account they slept for a very long time, their dog guarding the entrance, and they were turned from side to side (verse 18). Ibn Kathir wrote that an awe was cast over their appearance so that no one would dare approach them.

The article dwells on the Quran's warning against needless dispute. People guessed the sleepers numbered three, five or seven; the Quran says their true number is best known to God and tells the Prophet not to argue about it beyond clear evidence (verse 22). Imam al-Qurtubi wrote that spending time on knowledge that brings no benefit to belief or practice is not wise.

For the writer, holding to the truth in a society of corruption and consumerism is hard, and a believer needs a spiritual 'cave': nearness to God and guarding one's character. A hadith from Sunan al-Nasai on reciting Surah Al-Kahf on Fridays is also quoted.

The article is by Prothom Alo's religion desk.

Photo: Lance Cpl. Richard Sanglap-Heramis / Wikimedia Commons (public domain)

Source: Prothom Alo