اللَّهُمَّ رَبَّ السَّمَاوَاتِ السَّبْعِ وَمَا أَظَلَّتْ، وَرَبَّ الأَرَضِينَ وَمَا أَقَلَّتْ، وَرَبَّ الشَّيَاطِينِ وَمَا أَضَلَّتْ، كُنْ لِي جَارًا مِنْ شَرِّ خَلْقِكَ كُلِّهِمْ أَجْمَعِينَ، أَنْ يَفْرُطَ عَلَيَّ أَحَدٌ مِنْهُمْ أَوْ أَنْ يَطْغَى، عَزَّ جَارُكَ، وَتَبَارَكَ اسْمُكَ، وَلاَ إِلَهَ إِلاَّ أَنْتَ.
O Allah, Lord of the seven heavens and all that they cover, Lord of the earths and all that they hold, Lord of the devils and all that they mislead, be my neighbor (protector) from the evil of all Your creation, lest any of them should break in upon me or transgress against me. Mighty is Your protection, and blessed is Your name. There is no god but You.
Allahumma Rabba as-samawati as-sab'i wa ma azallat, wa Rabba al-ardiina wa ma aqallat, wa Rabba ash-shayateeni wa ma adallat, kun li jaaran min sharri khalqika kullihim ajma'een, an yafruta 'alayya ahadun minhum aw an yatgha, 'azza jaaruka, wa tabaraka ismuka, wa la ilaha illa anta.
When to Read
This dua is a profound supplication for protection and divine companionship. It is particularly beneficial for our elderly loved ones who may be living alone. Reciting it regularly, especially when they feel vulnerable or alone, can bring immense solace and a sense of Allah's constant presence safeguarding them. It's a way for us to extend our care through prayer, asking Allah to be their ultimate guardian and companion.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincere intention and deep humility. Imagine yourself seeking refuge directly with Allah. Utter the words clearly, focusing on the meaning of seeking Allah as a 'neighbor' or protector, a concept that emphasizes closeness and constant care. It's best recited after the obligatory prayers or at any time one feels the need for Allah's protection and company. Encouraging the elderly person to recite it themselves, or reciting it for them with their knowledge and consent, can be very comforting.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua offers immense benefits by invoking Allah's protection from all forms of evil, both seen and unseen. For those living alone, especially the elderly, it provides a powerful sense of security, knowing that the Almighty is their ultimate guardian. It addresses feelings of isolation by reminding them that Allah is their closest companion. The strength of the supplication lies in acknowledging Allah's lordship over all creation, reinforcing reliance solely on Him.
Source & Authentication
The narration in Sunan Abi Dawud states: 'Abdullah bin 'Amr bin Al-'As reported that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) taught him a supplication to recite when going to bed. He said: 'Abdullah, recite: Allahumma Rabba as-samawati as-sab'i wa ma azallat, wa Rabba al-ardiina wa ma aqallat, wa Rabba ash-shayateeni wa ma adallat, kun li jaaran min sharri khalqika kullihim ajma'een, an yafruta 'alayya ahadun minhum aw an yatgha, 'azza jaaruka, wa tabaraka ismuka, wa la ilaha illa anta.' (When the Prophet (ﷺ) went to bed, he would recite this supplication.) The hadith is graded as Hasan by scholars like Al-Albani. While originally taught for bedtime protection, its comprehensive request for Allah's guardianship against all evil and His companionship makes it incredibly fitting for those seeking comfort and companionship, particularly the elderly living alone.