For many Sunni Muslims, reciting Surah Al-Fatiha and offering its reward (isal-e-sawab) to the deceased (known as Fatiha dena) is a common practice rooted in compassion and Islamic tradition. However, understanding the correct method – especially for those unfamiliar with Arabic script – is essential.

This write-up explains the step-by-step Sunni method of giving Fatiha, using Roman English (English transliteration) to make it accessible to everyone. A PDF version of this guide is also available for easy printing and sharing.


The standard Sunni procedure involves the recitation of specific Surahs and Duas. Follow these steps:

a. Surah Al-Fatiha (once)
Bismillahir rahmanir raheem.
Alhamdulillahi rabbil ‘alameen. Ar rahmanir raheem. Maliki yawmid deen. Iyyaka na’budu wa iyyaka nasta’een. Ihdinas siratal mustaqeem. Siratal lazeena an’amta ‘alayhim ghayril maghdoobi ‘alayhim wa lad daalleen. Ameen.

b. Surah Al-Ikhlas (3 times)
Qul huwallahu ahad. Allahus samad. Lam yalid wa lam yoolad. Wa lam yakullahu kufuwan ahad.

c. Surah Al-Falaq & An-Naas (once each – optional but common)
Qul a’uzu birabbil falaq... (complete)
Qul a’uzu birabbin naas... (complete)

d. Ayat-ul-Kursi (once – highly recommended)
Allahu la ilaha illa huwal hayyul qayyoom... (until wa huwal ‘aliyyul ‘adheem)

e. Short Du’a (in Arabic or your language)
Example:
Allahumma inni qara’tu ma yassarta minal Qur’ani wa hadiyatu tilawatihi lihadhihil mayyit / lilmumineena wal muminaat. Fataqabbal minni kama tataqabbal min awliya’ika wa rusulik.
(Translation: O Allah, I recited what was easy of the Quran and gift its reward to this deceased / all believing men and women. Accept it from me as You accept from Your saints and messengers.)