Which Surah in the Quran does not begin with 'Bismillah' (In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful)?

Explanation

Surah Tauba (also known as Surah Bara'ah) is unique because it begins without Bismillah. Scholars explain that this Surah deals with themes of warning, declaration of disassociation from polytheists, and stern commands regarding treaties — and since Bismillah conveys mercy and security, it was not recited at the beginning of this Surah. This is by the consensus of the companions and the instruction of the Prophet (PBUH).

Good to know

All 114 Surahs of the Quran begin with Bismillah except Surah Tauba. Interestingly, Bismillah appears twice in Surah Naml (Chapter 27) — once at the beginning of the Surah and once within the letter of Prophet Sulaiman (AS) to the Queen of Sheba. This makes the total count of Bismillah in the Quran 114, matching the total number of Surahs.

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