سُبْحَانَ الَّذِي سَخَّرَ لَنَا هَذَا وَمَا كُنَّا لَهُ مُقْرِنِينَ وَإِنَّا إِلَىٰ رَبِّنَا لَمُنقَلِبُونَ
Glory be to Him Who has subjected this to us, and we could never have accomplished it by ourselves. And indeed, to our Lord we will certainly return.
Subhanalladhi sakhkhara lana hadha wa ma kunna lahu muqrinina wa inna ila Rabbina lamunqalibun.
When to Read
This powerful dua is recited when embarking on a journey, making it particularly relevant for family members departing for military service. It should be recited as they are about to set off, or as they begin their travel. It's also beneficial for the family to recite it after their departure, asking Allah to protect them on their journey.
How to Read
This dua is traditionally recited upon mounting a vehicle for travel. While the words themselves are a testament to Allah's power and our reliance on Him, the intention behind the recitation is key. Recite it with a sincere heart, reflecting on the profound truth that all journeys and all capabilities are from Allah. Take your time, pronounce each word clearly, and imbue it with your earnest supplication for safety and a successful return.
Virtues & Benefits
This supplication acknowledges Allah's sovereignty over all things, including the means of travel and the journey itself. It expresses humility and dependence, seeking His protection during the journey and affirming our ultimate return to Him. For those leaving for military service, this dua invokes Allah's care for their safe passage and successful completion of their duties, and it provides immense comfort and reassurance to the families left behind, knowing they have entrusted their loved ones to the Almighty.
Source & Authentication
Narrated by Ibn Umar (may Allah be pleased with them both): When the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) mounted his camel to set out on a journey, he would glorify Allah by saying 'Subhan Allah' three times, and then he would say: 'Subhanalladhi sakhkhara lana hadha wa ma kunna lahu muqrinina wa inna ila Rabbina lamunqalibun.' (Glory be to Him Who has subjected this to us, and we could never have accomplished it by ourselves. And indeed, to our Lord we will certainly return.) Then he would say: 'O Allah, we ask You for goodness and piety in this journey of ours, and for deeds that please You. O Allah, make this journey easy for us and let us cover the distance quickly. O Allah, You are our Companion on the road and the One Who will look after our family. O Allah, I seek refuge in You from the hardship of this journey, from seeing an unpleasant sight, and from bad tidings in our wealth and family.' When he returned, he would say these words and say: 'We return repentant, worshipping, praising our Lord, and free from need.' - Sahih Muslim 1342