369 – Umm Hisham bint Harithah ibn al-Nu‘man (rA) reported: “I learned Surah Qaf – ‘Qaf. By the Glorious Quran’ – only from the lips of the Messenger of Allah ﷺ, for he would recite it every Friday from the pulpit when he addressed the people.” Related by Muslim (1).

What is derived from the hadith:
1 – It is recommended to recite Surah Qaf, or part of it, in the Friday sermon, for that was the Prophet’s consistent practice.
2 – He ﷺ selected this surah because it contains mention of the recording of every word a person utters, whether good or evil; references to death and resurrection; descriptions of Paradise and Hell; and stern exhortations and emphatic warnings. It is therefore an excellent reminder for the listeners.
3 – The hadith establishes the legitimacy of reciting something from the Quran during the sermon. Some scholars, including the Hanbalis, regard it as obligatory, stipulating that at least one verse from the Book of Allah be recited.
4 – It indicates the desirability of repeating exhortations and reminding the congregation in the sermon.
5 – The most beneficial admonition for the general public and for sinners is the mention of death, resurrection, and recompense; whoever recalls and internalizes that will desist and feel fear—provided he has a heart or lends a listening ear while truly present.