اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنَ الْعَجْزِ وَالْكَسَلِ، وَالْجُبْنِ وَالْهَرَمِ، وَالْبُخْلِ، وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ عَذَابِ الْقَبْرِ، وَمِنْ فِتْنَةِ الْمَحْيَا وَالْمَمَاتِ.
O Allah, I seek refuge in You from helplessness and laziness, from cowardice and old age, and from stinginess. I seek refuge in You from the punishment of the grave, and from the trials of life and death.
Allahumma inni a'udhu bika minal-'ajzi wal-kasali, wal-jubni wal-harami, wal-bukhli, wa a'udhu bika min 'adhabal-qabri, wa min fitnatil-mahya wal-mamat.
When to Read
This powerful dua is recommended to be recited after the obligatory prayers, particularly after finishing the Taslim (the final salutation). It's a crucial moment when our supplications are said to be more readily accepted. Making it a habit after each prayer solidifies our reliance on Allah for protection against these debilitating traits.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and conviction, focusing on the meaning of each phrase. Raise your hands as you would for a regular dua, showing your need and earnestness. It is recommended to seek refuge in Allah from these evils as the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught us.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua directly addresses several key character flaws and spiritual dangers that can hinder our progress in this life and the hereafter. Seeking refuge from **helplessness ('ajz)** and **laziness (kasal)** helps us maintain spiritual and physical energy for worship and good deeds. Protection from **cowardice (jubn)** and **old age (haram - often implying frailty and inability)** ensures we face challenges with courage and remain active in service. Guarding against **stinginess (buhl)** encourages generosity. Most importantly, seeking refuge from the **punishment of the grave ('adhabal-qabr)** and the **trials of life and death (fitnatil-mahya wal-mamat)** is seeking protection from the most terrifying stages of our journey.
Source & Authentication
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ used to seek refuge in Allah from these words: اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنَ الْعَجْزِ وَالْكَسَلِ، وَالْجُبْنِ وَالْهَرَمِ، وَالْبُخْلِ، وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ عَذَابِ الْقَبْرِ، وَمِنْ فِتْنَةِ الْمَحْيَا وَالْمَمَاتِ. (Sahih Muslim 2706)