اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنَ الْهَمِّ وَالْحَزَنِ، وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنَ الْعَجْزِ وَالْكَسَلِ، وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنَ الْجُبْنِ وَالْبُخْلِ، وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ غَلَبَةِ الدَّيْنِ وَقَهْرِ الرِّجَالِ
O Allah, I seek refuge in You from distress and sorrow, and I seek refuge in You from incapacity and laziness, and I seek refuge in You from cowardice and stinginess, and I seek refuge in You from being overcome by debt and subjugated by men.
Allahumma inni a'udhu bika minal-hammi wal-hazani, wa a'udhu bika minal-'ajzi wal-kasali, wa a'udhu bika minal-jubni wal-bukhl, wa a'udhu bika min ghalabatid-dayni wa qahrir-rijal.
When to Read
This powerful dua is perfect to recite when you feel overwhelmed by feelings of anxiety, worry, or inadequacy, especially in social situations. It's also beneficial to make it a regular part of your morning or evening supplications to build a consistent shield against these negative feelings. When facing an upcoming social event that causes apprehension, make this dua beforehand.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincere conviction, focusing on each word and its meaning. Understand that you are turning to Allah, the Most Powerful, for protection and strength. Raise your hands slightly if possible, as is the Sunnah when making dua. Believe that Allah will respond to your supplication and grant you ease. Repeat it multiple times if you feel the need for reassurance.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua directly addresses several sources of deep-seated anxiety and distress. By seeking refuge in Allah from 'distress and sorrow' (al-hammi wal-hazani), you acknowledge that true peace comes from Him. Seeking refuge from 'incapacity and laziness' (al-'ajzi wal-kasali) helps combat the feelings of helplessness that can fuel social anxiety. Asking to be protected from 'cowardice and stinginess' (al-jubni wal-bukhl) builds inner strength and confidence. Finally, seeking refuge from 'being overcome by debt and subjugated by men' (ghalabatid-dayni wa qahrir-rijal) removes external pressures that can make one feel small or trapped. This comprehensive supplication helps cultivate inner resilience and reliance on Allah.
Source & Authentication
Anas (may Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (peace be upon him) used to say: "Allahumma inni a'udhu bika minal-hammi wal-hazani, wa a'udhu bika minal-'ajzi wal-kasali, wa a'udhu bika minal-jubni wal-bukhl, wa a'udhu bika min ghalabatid-dayni wa qahrir-rijal." (Sahih al-Bukhari 1109)