What it is and when you say it
Al-Fatiha, "The Opening", is the first surah of the Quran. It has seven verses, and you recite it in every rakat of every prayer, standing, right after the opening takbir.
After it you say "Ameen". Ameen is a short dua, "O Allah, accept", and not part of the surah.
Read the full guide: What is Al-Fatiha in transliteration and English?
How to learn it by heart
- Read the whole text once with its meaning, so you know what you are saying.
- Learn one line at a time. Say it out loud until it flows, then add the next line.
- Hide the words little by little: first letters, then nothing. Tap a line when you need a look.
- Use it in your prayers right away. Repeating it five times a day is what makes it stay.
Common questions
Why is Al-Fatiha recited in every rakat?
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "There is no prayer for the one who does not recite the Opening of the Book." It is the one surah every prayer needs.
Is Bismillah part of Al-Fatiha?
In the common Hafs count used here, Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem is its first verse. Some schools count it as a separate verse said before it. Everyone says it.
How long does it take to learn Al-Fatiha?
Most people know it within a few days to two weeks, learning one or two verses a day and reciting it in every prayer.
Hear every word
Revertly teaches new Muslims to pray from zero, with a recitation for every line, so you learn how it sounds, not only how it looks. Cannot afford it? Ask for a free code.