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 anxiety 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 overpowering 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 ghalabatid-dayni wa qahrir-rijali.
When to Read
This dua is particularly beneficial to recite when you feel prayer becoming a burden rather than a source of comfort. While it's not exclusively for *during* prayer, its themes directly address the internal struggles that can detract from the joy of Salah. Recite it before you begin your prayer, or at any point during the day when you feel weighed down by these worries, which can then impact your connection with Allah during Salah.
How to Read
This is a comprehensive supplication taught by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to address deep-seated anxieties and burdens. Raise your hands slightly, as you would when making dua, and recite these words with sincerity and a clear intention of seeking Allah's protection. Focus on understanding the meaning of each phrase and how it relates to your own feelings about prayer and life's challenges. Believe that Allah hears your plea and has the power to relieve your burdens, thereby making your prayer a more joyful experience.
Virtues & Benefits
This powerful dua, taught by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to his companion Abu Bakr (may Allah be pleased with him), directly combats the internal obstacles that can rob us of joy in our worship. By seeking refuge from anxiety, sorrow, helplessness, laziness, fear, and the overwhelming pressures of debt and others' dominance, we clear the path for a more present and heartfelt connection with Allah. When these burdens are lifted, prayer naturally transforms from a duty into a refuge and a source of peace and joy. It's a practical tool for spiritual well-being, allowing us to approach Salah with a lighter heart.
Source & Authentication
It was narrated that Abu Bakr said: 'I said to the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him): 'Teach me a supplication that I can say in my prayer.' He said: 'Say: O Allah, I have wronged myself greatly, and no one forgives sins but You. So, forgive me with forgiveness from You, and have mercy upon me. Verily, You are the Oft-Forgiving, the Most Merciful.' I said: 'O Messenger of Allah, what should I say in my prayer?' He said: 'Say: O Allah, I have wronged myself greatly... [above dua].' This part of the hadith, specifically the dua for seeking refuge, was narrated by Al-Bukhari in his collection.