اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ الْهَمِّ وَالْحَزَنِ، وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ الْعَجْزِ وَالْكَسَلِ، وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ الْجُبْنِ وَالْبُخْلِ، وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ غَلَبَةِ الدَّيْنِ وَقَهْرِ الرِّجَالِ
O Allah, I seek refuge in You from worry and grief, 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 subjugation 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-rijal.
When to Read
This powerful dua is recited by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ for himself, but its comprehensive seeking of refuge from various afflictions makes it an excellent prayer for our children. You can recite it for them when you notice signs of sadness, anxiety, or frustration. It's also beneficial to teach them to say it themselves as they grow, or to recite it during times of general well-being to seek protection from future troubles. Consider making it a part of your daily routine, perhaps after Fajr or before bed, directing the intention towards your children's peace of mind.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and conviction, imagining Allah's protection enveloping your child. You can gently place your hand on your child's head or chest while reciting it. Focus on the meaning of each phrase, understanding that you are entrusting your child's emotional and mental well-being to the Most Merciful. It's also beautiful to teach your child the meaning of the words so they can connect with the prayer on a deeper level.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua, taught by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to his companions, is a comprehensive shield against numerous emotional and psychological burdens. By seeking refuge in Allah from 'worry and grief' (al-hamm wal-hazan), we are asking for His intervention to lift the heavy feelings that can weigh down a child's heart. It addresses not just outward circumstances but the internal state, a crucial aspect of a child's development. The dua also seeks protection from helplessness and laziness, encouraging a proactive and resilient spirit. Furthermore, seeking refuge from cowardice and stinginess aims to foster courage and generosity. The final part, 'overwhelming of debt and subjugation of men,' though seemingly worldly, points to the peace of mind that comes from independence and freedom from oppression, which greatly impacts a child's sense of security. Reciting this dua for your child is a profound act of love, entrusting them to Allah's care and seeking His blessings for their happiness and strength.
Source & Authentication
Ibn Mas'ud reported: The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said, "No person suffers any anxiety or grief, and then says: > O Allah, I seek refuge in You from worry and grief, 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 subjugation 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-rijal. > > ...but that Allah would remove his anxiety and grief and replace them with relief." He was told, "O Messenger of Allah, should we not learn these words?" He said, "Yes, it is necessary for everyone who hears them after me to learn them." Sahih Muslim 2706