The word Kawthar comes from the word Kathir, (numerous or plentiful) and literally means a source of good abundance, which is un-bounded and limitless, abundance of countless benefits and blessings. It is the abundant bounty which Allah bestowed on Prophet Muhammad (peace be on him). Some scholars have interpreted it as the lake or river that exists in Paradise.
Surah Al-Kawthar is the 108th chapter of the Quran which was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) in Mecca. Surah Al-Kawthar is the shortest surah in the Holy Quran. God revealed this Surah to Prophet Muhammad after one of his enemies said that he had no posterity, because his two sons passed away. The Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) faced magnitude of painful incidents and offensive language of his enemies. One of the objectives of this Surah was, solacing him and to comfort the Prophet’s heart.
The first Verse:
Inna Aatayina Kal Kawthar 1
(Indeed, We have granted you, al-Kawthar.)
This verse begins with an article of emphasis, “indeed.” This is used to establish the truth of the information mentioned here. In this Surah Allah is addressing His messenger but he referred to Himself in the first person meaning that Allah, the Most Exalted granted al Kawther to Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) Himself. This indicates Allah`s closeness to His Prophet from very beginning in this surah in order to console him. Allah is the possessor of great bounty and bestower of countless favors. He is vast in His generosity. Allah Almighty extended un-limited blessings, mercy, provisions and rewards for His Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him).
Imam Ahmed recorded from Ibn `Umar that the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said,
“Al Kawthar is a river in Paradise whose banks are of gold and it runs over pearls.
Its water is whiter than milk and sweeter than honey.” (At-Tirmidhi)
The people have seen and witnessed as to how abundantly Allah has blessed His Holy prophet in this world. In addition, Kawthar also implies another great blessing which Allah Sub-han hu will bestow on him in the Hereafter.
"And if He intends for you good, then there is no repeller of His bounty. He causes it to reach whom He wills, He is the Forgiving, the Merciful." (10: 107).
Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) was chosen as His messenger for his honesty, patience, taqwa, hard work, good deeds and gratefulness to Allah. Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu
′alayhe wa sallam') was a man who possessed the highest moral excellence, and that’s why he is the model for Muslims to follow.
This also included the blessing that Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) attained the highest success that eventually such a world-wide community emerged with power and prowess to dominate the world. The rise of Islam is intrinsically linked with the Prophet Muhammad (Pbuh). Muslims regard Prophet Muhammad as the greatest of all leaders. He is seen by the Muslims as possessor of the best virtues.
Today Islam is the second-largest religion in the world, following Christianity. According to a report by the PEW Research Center, there are 1.8 billion Muslims worldwide (2015 est.). That number is projected to increase to 2.9 billion by 2060.
This also included the blessing that all Muslims love and pay respect to Prophet Muhammad (‘Sallallahu ′alayhe wa sallam') and supplicate, O Allah, please confer Your blessing and grant peace upon our Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). The Ummah also recite Darood for Muhammad (Pbuh) day and night. These acts will continue the whole life of every Muslim.
The second Verse:
“Fasalli Le Rabbika Wanhar”.2
So pray to your Lord and sacrifice [to Him alone].
This ayah speaks about how God has gifted Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). This ascertains the never-ending abundance that was given to the Prophet in this life, more over when these bounties come from Allah Almighty, and He mentions this in His Qur’an, this surely comforts the Prophet’s heart. And leaves him feeling assured that he will be successful in both lives.
He, Who grants these blessings is Allah Almighty and to Allah alone must we turn in adoration and thanksgiving is due to Almighty Allah for His unlimited blessings and rewards. Prayer, worship and sacrifice, which is also a kind of worship, are all for Allah Almighty only. These are good deeds to attain Allah's favors. So, Allah Almighty says, perform the prayers for His sake alone and offer sacrifice and be grateful to Him for everything that you possess.
The third Verse:
Inna Sha'ni- ya Ka Huwwal Abtar.3
Indeed, your enemy is the one cut off.
Hatred and ill will are not considered constructive for anyone but its opposites. Those who said that he had no posterity, the divine Light shone more brilliantly than ever for the Prophet (peace be upon him). It was the enemies that were cut off from all future hope, in this world and the next. Messenger of God was encouraged and directed to continue the mission to guide people to perform acts of righteousness.