The same applies to victory: if it is decreed that a person is overpowered and defeated, even to the point of being killed, then, provided he is rightly guided and steadfast, he dies a martyr, and his being killed completes Allah’s favor upon him. It is thus clear that people’s need for guidance is greater than their need for provision and victory; indeed, there is no comparison between them. This is why this supplication has been made obligatory upon them.

Moreover, this supplication also encompasses provision and victory. For whoever is guided to the straight path will be among those who fear Allah:

“And whoever fears Allah—He will make for him a way out,”

“And will provide for him from where he does not expect.”

He will also be among those who rely upon Allah:

“And whoever relies upon Allah—then He is sufficient for him. Indeed, Allah will accomplish His purpose.”

He will be among those who support Allah and His Messenger, and whoever supports Allah, Allah will support him. He will also belong to Allah’s forces, and Allah’s forces are victorious. Complete guidance thus entails attaining the greatest means of securing provision and victory.

It is therefore clear that this supplication encompasses everything one seeks: through it every benefit is attained and every harm is averted. This is why it has been made obligatory upon the servant. This also shows that nothing else can take the place of al-Fātihah, and that its superiority over other speech is greater than the superiority of bowing and prostration over all other acts of humble submission. If those specific acts are required, then this is all the more deserving of being required.

All praise belongs to Allah, Lord of the worlds. May Allah’s blessings and peace be upon our master Muhammad, his family, and his Companions.