الْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ الَّذِي عَافَانِي مِمَّا ابْتَلاكَ بِهِ وَفَضَّلَنِي عَلَى كَثِيرٍ مِمَّنْ خَلَقَ تَفْضِيلاً
All praise is due to Allah who saved me from that which He afflicted you with and favored me over many of those whom He created with [great] favoritism.
Al-hamdulillāhil-ladhī `āfānī mimmabtalāka bihī, wa faḍḍalanī `alā kathīrin mimman khalaqa tafḍīlā.
When to Read
This powerful dua is specifically meant to be recited when you witness someone afflicted with a trial, a hardship, or an illness. It's a moment of profound reflection: seeing another's struggle should immediately prompt us to recognize and appreciate the well-being and ease that Allah has granted us. It's not about feeling superior, but about a deep, humbling gratitude for the blessings we often take for granted – the 'hidden favors' of safety and health.
How to Read
The etiquette for this dua is crucial and reflects the compassion inherent in our deen. When you see someone in difficulty, recite this dua **softly to yourself**, ensuring that the person afflicted does not hear you. Our intention is to express gratitude to Allah, not to highlight their tribulation or make them feel worse. Recite it with a sincere heart, internalizing the praise for Allah and His immense favor upon you, and reflecting on how easily your circumstances could have been different. This private moment of reflection reinforces humility and empathy.
Virtues & Benefits
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ promised a beautiful reward for those who recite this dua. He said: 'Whoever sees an afflicted person then says [this dua], his affliction shall not reach him.' (At-Tirmidhi 3432). This isn't merely about avoiding that specific trial, but an indication of Allah's protection for a grateful servant. It's a reminder that **gratitude is a shield** – by acknowledging Allah's hidden favors and well-being, we strengthen our spiritual defenses and earn His continued protection and blessings. It teaches us to be constantly mindful of Allah's grace, even in the trials of others.
Source & Authentication
Umar bin Al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him) said: The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: 'Whoever sees an afflicted person then says: `Al-ḥamdulillāhil-ladhī `āfānī mimmabtalāka bihī, wa faḍḍalanī `alā kathīrin mimman khalaqa tafḍīlā.` (All praise is due to Allah who saved me from that which He afflicted you with and favored me over many of those whom He created with [great] favoritism.), his affliction shall not reach him.' At-Tirmidhi said: This Hadith is Hasan Gharib.