Dua & Sunnah

Dua When Overwhelmed by Life's Responsibilities

Anxiety & Distress
Sahih HadithSahih al-Bukhari 6369

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, I seek refuge in You from helplessness and laziness, I seek refuge in You from cowardice and stinginess, and I seek refuge in You from the overwhelming of debt and the oppression of 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-bukhli, wa a'udhu bika min ghalabad-dayni wa qahrir-rijali.

When to Read

This is a profound supplication that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught us to recite when feeling burdened by the weight of life. Whether it's work pressures, family demands, financial worries, or simply the sheer magnitude of tasks ahead, this dua is for those moments when you feel your capacity is stretched thin and your heart feels heavy. It's particularly relevant when facing situations that induce anxiety, a sense of incapability, or the fear of being overcome by circumstances.

How to Read

Recite this dua sincerely, with a present heart and a firm belief in Allah's power to alleviate your burdens. It is best to say it during times of quiet reflection, perhaps after a prayer, or even as you wake up. Raise your hands as you make this supplication, as is the Sunnah, and seek Allah's protection and assistance. Repeating it consistently can bring great peace and strength.

Virtues & Benefits

This comprehensive dua addresses major sources of human suffering and anxiety. Seeking refuge in Allah from 'distress and sorrow' (al-ham wa al-hazan) helps to calm the mind and soothe the heart. Protection from 'helplessness and laziness' (al-'ajz wal-kasal) empowers you to tackle responsibilities with energy and a positive outlook. Asking to be saved from 'cowardice and stinginess' (al-jubn wal-bukhl) fosters courage and generosity, essential qualities for navigating life's challenges. Finally, seeking protection from 'overwhelming debt and the oppression of men' (ghalabad al-dayn wa qahr ar-rijal) is a plea for financial ease and freedom from unjust burdens imposed by others. By reciting this, we place our trust in Allah, recognizing that He is the ultimate controller and the best source of strength and relief.

Source & Authentication

Narrated Abu Huraira (may Allah be pleased with him): The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ used to seek refuge in Allah from the evil of the Day of Darkness and from the evil of the Day of Destruction, and from the evil of the Day of Pests, and from the evil of the Day of Drowning, and from the evil of falling down, and from the evil of being trampled to death, and from the evil of being crushed to death, and from the evil of drowning, and from the evil of being burnt, and from the evil of being thrown from a high place, and from the evil of dying by starvation, and from the evil of being killed by beasts, and from the evil of wearing cheap armour (i.e. taking a shield in front of the enemy when it is not permissible). He used to seek refuge in Allah: "O Allah, I seek refuge in You from distress and sorrow, I seek refuge in You from helplessness and laziness, I seek refuge in You from cowardice and stinginess, and I seek refuge in You from the overwhelming of debt and the oppression of men." (Sahih al-Bukhari 6369)
Sahih HadithSahih al-Bukhari 6369
Ad Space

Related Duas

Get Daily Duas in Your Inbox

Receive a beautiful dua every morning to start your day with remembrance.