اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنَ الْهَمِّ وَالْحَزَنِ، وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنَ الْعَجْزِ وَالْكَسَلِ، وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنَ الْجُبْنِ وَالْبُخْلِ، وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ غَلَبَةِ الدَّيْنِ وَقَهْرِ الرِّجَالِ.
O Allah, I seek refuge in You from distress and sorrow, I seek refuge in You from incapacity and laziness, I seek refuge in You from cowardice and stinginess, and I seek refuge in You from the burden of debt and the oppression of men.
Allahumma inni a'udhu bika minal-hammi wal-hazani, wa a'udhu bika minal-'ajzi wal-kasali, wa a'udhu bika minal-jubni wal-bukhli, wa a'udhu bika min ghalabatid-dayni wa qahrir-rijal.
When to Read
This powerful dua is a lifeline for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the state of the Ummah, or indeed any personal distress. You can recite it when you feel sadness creeping in, anxiety about worldly matters, or a general sense of helplessness. It's especially relevant when observing the struggles of Muslims worldwide and feeling a pang of sorrow for their condition. Make it a regular part of your supplications, perhaps after your obligatory prayers or during the late hours of the night when the heart is most receptive.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincere intention and a hopeful heart. Raise your hands as you would during other supplications. Focus on the meaning of each phrase, truly asking Allah to protect you from these afflictions. It's beneficial to understand that seeking refuge with Allah is an active act of reliance and trust. Repeat it multiple times if you feel the need, letting the words wash over your worries. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught us to seek refuge in Allah from specific evils, and this dua encapsulates many of them that can contribute to feelings of sadness and anxiety.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua is a comprehensive shield against common afflictions that lead to distress and paralysis. By seeking refuge in Allah from 'distress and sorrow' (al-hammi wal-hazani), we acknowledge that true relief comes only from Him. The mention of 'incapacity and laziness' (al-'ajzi wal-kasali) addresses the mental and physical states that prevent us from acting positively, whether for ourselves or for the Ummah. Seeking refuge from 'cowardice and stinginess' (al-jubni wal-bukhli) protects our character, enabling courage and generosity, which are vital for contributing to the betterment of our community. Finally, protection from 'the burden of debt and the oppression of men' (ghalabatid-dayni wa qahrir-rijal) addresses significant external pressures that can weigh heavily on a person's spirit. Reciting this dua regularly can bring immense peace, clarity, and the strength to face challenges with faith.
Source & Authentication
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ used to seek refuge with Allah from these words: 'O Allah, I seek refuge in You from distress and sorrow, from incapacity and laziness, from cowardice and stinginess, and from the burden of debt and the oppression of men.'