اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ زَوَالِ نِعْمَتِكَ، وَتَحَوُّلِ عَافِيَتِكَ، وَفُجَاءَةِ نِقْمَتِكَ، وَجَمِيعِ سَخَطِكَ.
O Allah, I seek refuge in You from the passing away of Your Favors, and from the suddenness of Your Punishment, and from the evil of Your Decree, and from the worst of Your Enemies (or from all Your Wrath).
Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min zawali ni'matik, wa tahawwuli 'afiyatik, wa fuj'ati niqmatik, wa jami'i sakhatik.
When to Read
This dua is especially poignant for those entering or experiencing old age. As our bodies weaken and our reliance on Allah increases, it's a time when we may feel more vulnerable to the trials of life. Recite this when you feel a sense of unease about the future, or when facing physical or mental challenges that accompany aging. It's a comprehensive plea for divine protection against unforeseen hardships and the loss of blessings.
How to Read
This is a profound supplication that should be recited with sincere intention and a humble heart. Raise your hands in supplication, the way the Prophet ﷺ used to. Focus on the meaning of each phrase, truly understanding your dependence on Allah's mercy and protection. Recite it with conviction, knowing that Allah is the All-Hearing and All-Powerful.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua encapsulates a believer's awareness of Allah's immense power and their own utter dependence. By seeking refuge from the 'passing away of favors,' we acknowledge that all blessings are from Allah and can be taken away. Seeking refuge from 'sudden punishment' and 'evil of His decree' shows our understanding that Allah has complete control and His wisdom encompasses all events, even those we may find difficult. It's a way to cultivate contentment and resilience, trusting in Allah's plan even when facing the inevitable changes that come with age.
Source & Authentication
Yahya related to me from Malik, from Abu al-Zinad, from al-Araj, from Abu Hurayra, that the Messenger of Allah ﷺ used to invoke Allah with these words: 'O Allah, I seek refuge in You from the passing away of Your Favors, and from the suddenness of Your Punishment, and from the evil of Your Decree, and from the worst of Your Enemies (or from all Your Wrath).' Yahya said: Malik said: 'The enemy is Satan.'