اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ جَهْدِ الْبَلَاءِ، وَدَرَكِ الشَّقَاءِ، وَسُوءِ الْقَضَاءِ، وَشَمَاتَةِ الْأَعْدَاءِ.
O Allah, I seek refuge in You from the hardship of affliction, the attainment of misery, the evil of divine decree, and the rejoicing of enemies.
Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min jahdil-bala'i, wa darakish-shaqa'i, wa su'il-qada'i, wa shamatatil-a'da'i.
When to Read
This is a profound supplication that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught us to recite regularly, especially during times when we might feel overwhelmed by the challenges of life or the seeming severity of fate. It's a beautiful way to proactively seek Allah's protection before trials befall us, acknowledging that true peace comes from Him alone. You can make it a part of your morning or evening supplications, or recite it whenever you feel a sense of anxiety about what the future holds.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and conviction, raising your hands as is customary when making dua. Understand that you are turning to Allah, the Controller of all affairs, seeking His shelter. Reflect on the meaning of each phrase: acknowledging the potential for hardship, the sting of misfortune, the fear of what Allah has decreed (even if it seems difficult at first), and the malicious joy that enemies might take in our struggles. Repeat it multiple times to reinforce the intention.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua encompasses seeking refuge from some of the most significant trials that can afflict a person. By specifically asking to be protected from 'su'il-qada'' (the evil of divine decree), we are essentially asking Allah to shield us from the negative perception or overwhelming feeling associated with what He has destined. It helps us cultivate patience (sabr) and acceptance (rida) when faced with difficult circumstances, knowing that Allah's decree is ultimately for our good, even if we don't understand it at the time. It also protects us from the despair that can arise from seeing others rejoice in our downfall.
Source & Authentication
Narrated Abu Huraira: The Prophet (ﷺ) used to seek refuge in Allah from seven things, and he used to say: 'Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min jahdil-bala'i, wa darakish-shaqa'i, wa su'il-qada'i, wa shamatatil-a'da'i, wa jahidhin-ni'mati, wa tazabzubin-ni'mati, wa hamdis-sakhati.' (Sahih al-Bukhari 6347). While the full hadith mentions other categories, this specific part addresses the fear of divine decree.