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 incapacity and laziness, I seek refuge in You from cowardice and stinginess, and I seek refuge in You from the burden 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-bukhl, wa a'udhu bika min ghalabatid-dayni wa qahrir-rijali.
When to Read
This powerful dua is particularly relevant when facing overwhelming difficulties, such as recovering from a devastating event like a natural disaster, a personal loss, or a widespread crisis. Recite it when you feel burdened by sorrow, incapable of taking the necessary steps, or overwhelmed by the challenges of rebuilding your life, community, or property. It's a supplication for spiritual and emotional strength to face immense hardship.
How to Read
Raise your hands (if possible) as you would in any supplication, facing the Qiblah (direction of prayer). Begin by acknowledging Allah and seeking refuge in Him. Repeat the phrases sincerely, focusing on the meaning of each point of refuge. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ would often repeat his supplications three times. Do this with a sincere heart, knowing that Allah is the ultimate helper and sustainer.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua provides comprehensive spiritual armor against the emotional and psychological tolls of devastation. By seeking refuge from distress and sorrow, you ask Allah to ease your emotional pain. Seeking refuge from incapacity and laziness empowers you to take action and begin the process of recovery. Protection from cowardice and stinginess helps you face challenges bravely and be generous in the rebuilding effort. Finally, seeking refuge from debt and subjugation ensures that your rebuilding efforts are not hindered by financial ruin or oppression. It's a dua that addresses the multifaceted challenges of starting over.
Source & Authentication
Narrated Abu Huraira: The Prophet (ﷺ) used to invoke: 'O Allah! I seek refuge in You from distress and sorrow, incapacity and laziness, cowardice and stinginess, and the burden of debt and the overpowering of men.' (Sahih al-Bukhari 5902) Context: This hadith highlights the Prophet's (ﷺ) comprehensive approach to seeking Allah's protection against various forms of hardship, both internal and external. When faced with a devastating event, the natural feelings that arise are distress, sorrow, and a sense of helplessness. This dua directly addresses these feelings and seeks divine strength to overcome them.