اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ جَاهِدِ الْبَلاءِ، وَدَرَكِ الشَّقَاءِ، وَسُوءِ الْقَضَاءِ، وَشَمَاتَةِ الأَعْدَاءِ.
O Allah, I seek refuge in You from the severe trials, the attainment of misery, the evil of decrees, and the rejoicing of enemies.
Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min jahidil-bala', wa darakish-shaqa', wa su'il-qada', wa shamatatil-a'da'.
When to Read
This is a comprehensive supplication that can be recited at any time, but it is particularly poignant when seeking Allah's protection against any form of hardship, illness, or misfortune. It's a good dua to make regularly, perhaps after your obligatory prayers, to safeguard yourself from what is unseen.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and a firm belief in Allah's power to protect. Raise your hands as you would in supplication, facing the Qiblah if possible, and ensure you are in a state of purity. Focus on the meaning of the words and ask Allah wholeheartedly.
Virtues & Benefits
This powerful dua encompasses seeking refuge from a wide spectrum of troubles. 'Jahid al-bala' specifically refers to the most severe afflictions, and by extension, can include devastating illnesses like heart disease. It also covers emotional and spiritual hardship ('darakish-shaqa'), the hardship of destiny ('su'il-qada'), and the pain of seeing your enemies gloat ('shamatatil-a'da'). By reciting this, we are asking Allah to shield us from the worst of what life can bring, both physically and emotionally. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ himself taught this dua, indicating its profound importance and efficacy.
Source & Authentication
Narrated Abu Huraira: The Prophet (ﷺ) used to seek refuge in Allah from the hard times, from the most wretched fate, from evil judgment and from the malice of the enemies. (Sahih al-Bukhari 6349)