اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنَ الْعَجْزِ وَالْكَسَلِ، وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنَ الْجُبْنِ وَالْهَرَمِ، وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ غَلَبَةِ الدَّيْنِ وَقَهْرِ الرِّجَالِ
O Allah, I seek refuge in You from helplessness and laziness, and I seek refuge in You from cowardice and old age, and I seek refuge in You from the burden of debt and the domination of men.
Allahumma inni a'udhu bika minal-'ajzi wal-kasali, wa a'udhu bika minal-jubni wal-harami, wa a'udhu bika min ghalabad-dayni wa qahrir-rijali.
When to Read
This dua is particularly relevant when you feel overwhelmed by a sense of inadequacy, a fear of not being able to learn or understand things, or when facing challenges that require knowledge and capability. Recite it during moments of quiet reflection, before starting a new task, or when anxiety about your intellectual capacity arises. It's a plea for divine assistance against internal states that hinder growth and confidence.
How to Read
Raise your hands in supplication, facing the Qiblah if possible. Utter the dua with sincerity and heartfelt conviction. Visualize seeking protection from Allah (SWT) against these specific weaknesses. Remember that true strength comes from Him, and this dua is a means of seeking that strength.
Virtues & Benefits
This powerful supplication directly addresses the root of many fears related to personal development and capability. Seeking refuge from 'helplessness' (al-'ajz) and 'laziness' (al-kasal) is crucial for overcoming the inertia that often accompanies the fear of not knowing enough. Laziness is a direct enemy of learning, and helplessness stems from a lack of perceived ability. By asking Allah to protect us from these, we are asking for the motivation, energy, and capacity to acquire knowledge and act upon it. The inclusion of refuge from 'cowardice' (al-jubn) is also vital, as fear itself can paralyze us and prevent us from trying to learn or face intellectual challenges.
Source & Authentication
Narrated Abu Huraira: The Prophet (ﷺ) used to say, “O Allah, I seek refuge in You from helplessness and laziness, from cowardice and old age, from helplessness and old age, and from the evil of tribulations, and from the punishment of the grave.” (Sahih al-Bukhari 6367, Sahih Muslim 2706) Note: The wording in some translations might vary slightly, but the core meaning remains consistent. In Sahih Muslim 2706, the wording is closer to the translation provided above, with 'burden of debt and domination of men' added in specific narrations related to seeking refuge from worldly troubles.