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 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 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-bukhl, wa a'udhu bika min ghalabatid-dayni wa qahrir-rijal.
When to Read
This dua is particularly relevant in the evening, as we prepare to rest or engage in evening activities. Laziness and procrastination can often creep in as the day winds down, affecting our productivity and our ability to perform acts of worship or personal development. Reciting this upon finishing daily tasks or before settling down for the night can be a powerful way to seek Allah's protection against these hindering qualities as we face the remainder of our evening and the start of a new day.
How to Read
This is a comprehensive supplication that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ frequently recited. It's best recited with sincerity and a present heart, focusing on the meaning of each phrase. Ideally, it should be said while standing or sitting, facing the Qiblah if possible, and with raised hands (though this is not a strict condition for this specific dua as it is a general seeking of refuge). The act of seeking refuge with Allah signifies our acknowledgment of our own limitations and His absolute power to protect us.
Virtues & Benefits
Seeking refuge in Allah from laziness (kasal) directly addresses the root of procrastination. By invoking Allah's protection, we are asking Him to shield us from the inertia that prevents us from fulfilling our duties and striving for good. This dua helps us align our will with Allah's, seeking His strength to overcome our own weaknesses. Regular recitation can foster a mindset of seeking divine assistance in all our endeavors, fostering discipline and a proactive spirit, which are essential for both worldly success and attaining Allah's pleasure.
Source & Authentication
Narrated Abu Huraira: The Prophet (ﷺ) used to seek refuge in Allah from hardship, sorrow, wickedness, and treachery, and from the evil of paganism and evil of debt, and the overpowering of men. He 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 6369)