الْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ الَّذِي عَافَانِي مِمَّا ابْتَلَاكَ بِهِ، وَفَضَّلَنِي عَلَى كَثِيرٍ مِمَّنْ خَلَقَ تَفْضِيلًا
All praise is due to Allah, Who saved me from what He tested you with, and gave me superiority over many of His creation.
Alhamdulillah alladhi 'afani mimma ibtalaka bihi, wa faddalani 'ala kathirim mimman khalaqa tafdila.
When to Read
This dua is recommended to be recited when you witness someone facing hardship, illness, or any form of trial that could lead to public shame or distress. By reciting this, you express gratitude for your own well-being and seek Allah's continued protection, acknowledging that you too could befall similar trials. It's a profound act of empathy and a reminder of our dependence on Allah's mercy.
How to Read
Recite this dua silently or in a gentle voice when you see someone afflicted by a trial. It's not meant to be said directly to the person suffering, but rather as a personal expression of gratitude and a supplication to Allah. Focus on the meaning and the sincere feeling of thankfulness for being spared such affliction, while recognizing the blessings Allah has bestowed upon you.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua encompasses several beautiful benefits. Firstly, it fosters a deep sense of **gratitude** ('shukr') towards Allah for His immense blessings of well-being and protection, which are often taken for granted. Secondly, it cultivates **humility** by reminding us that our own state is solely by Allah's grace and not due to any inherent superiority. Thirdly, it promotes **empathy** and **compassion** for those facing difficulties, turning a potentially negative observation into a positive act of worship. It also serves as a powerful reminder of the **transience of worldly trials** and the importance of seeking Allah's refuge.
Source & Authentication
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: 'Whoever sees an afflicted person and says: 'All praise is due to Allah, Who saved me from what He tested you with, and gave me superiority over many of His creation,' will be protected from that affliction, whatever it may be.' He also said: 'Verily, this affliction is a trial from Satan, and it is not fitting for you to repeat it against your brother.' (Sunan al-Tirmidhi, Book of Supplication, Hadith 3432. Graded Hasan by Al-Tirmidhi.)