Alkhannas

Al-Khannas is an Arabic term used in Islamic theology to describe a particular kind of whispered influence. The word comes from the root kh-n-s, meaning to withdraw or slip away, and the form khannas denotes “the one who withdraws” or “the sneaking one.” It is not presented as a proper name but as a descriptive epithet for an inner, insinuating force.

In the Qur’an, the phrase al-waswas al-khannas appears in Surah An-Nas (chapter 114), where believers are advised to seek protection from “the evil of the whisperer who withdraws.” The passage highlights the notion of whispered thoughts or suggestions that may tempt a person away from faith or righteousness, particularly in moments of spiritual vulnerability. The term is commonly interpreted as referring to a malevolent whisperer—traditionally associated with Satan—or, more broadly, to any deceptive suggestion that fades when confronted with remembrance of God.

Scholarly interpretation varies. Some classical exegeses identify al-khannas specifically with Satan, while others view it as a general description of any inner whisperer that recedes after being challenged by faith or memory. The term is used to discuss the psychology of temptation within Islamic thought and to explain protective practices.

In practice, the concept informs devotional disciplines such as recitation, remembrance (dhikr), and supplication, which Muslims invoke to guard against intrusive whispers. Al-khannas thus functions as a theological doctrine about spiritual testing and the means of remains steadfast in belief. See also: Waswas, Qur’an 114, Tafsir.