اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ جَهْدِ الْبَلَاءِ، وَدَرَكِ الشَّقَاءِ، وَسُوءِ الْقَضَاءِ، وَشَمَاتَةِ الْأَعْدَاءِ.
O Allah, I seek refuge in You from the hardship of calamities, from the reach of misery, from the evil of decrees, and from the rejoicing of enemies.
Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min jahdil-bala', wa darakish-shaqa', wa su'il-qada', wa shamatatil-a'da'.
When to Read
This is a profound supplication the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught us to recite regularly, especially when witnessing or fearing widespread hardship, political instability, or social discord. It's a powerful shield to invoke when turmoil seems to be on the horizon, or even when it has already arrived, asking Allah (Glorified and Exalted is He) for His ultimate protection.
How to Read
Recite this dua sincerely, with conviction in your heart that Allah (Glorified and Exalted is He) is the only one who can provide true refuge. It is recommended to recite it both in the morning and evening, as part of the remembrance of Allah (Dhikr). Focus on the meaning of each phrase as you utter it, recognizing the specific evils you are seeking protection from: the overwhelming nature of trials, the deep grip of misfortune, unfavorable divine decrees, and the taunting of adversaries. Raising your hands slightly when reciting can be a sign of your earnest seeking of Allah's help.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua encompasses comprehensive protection. 'Hardship of calamities' refers to trials that are difficult to bear. 'Reach of misery' signifies misfortunes that catch up to a person. 'Evil of decrees' means unfavorable outcomes that Allah has destined. 'Rejoicing of enemies' is the pain of seeing those who wish us ill triumph. By seeking refuge from these four aspects, we are asking Allah (Glorified and Exalted is He) for His all-encompassing protection, ensuring our well-being amidst the uncertainties of this world. It fosters reliance on Allah and cultivates inner peace, knowing that our ultimate safety lies with Him, regardless of external circumstances.
Source & Authentication
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ used to seek refuge in Allah from four things, and he would say: 'O Allah, I seek refuge in You from the hardship of calamities, the reach of misery, the evil of decrees, and the rejoicing of enemies.' (Sahih al-Bukhari 6307). This was part of his supplications, showing us the importance of proactively seeking Allah's protection against the various forms of hardship that humanity faces.