اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ الْهَمِّ وَالْحَزَنِ، وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ الْعَجْزِ وَالْكَسَلِ، وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ الْجُبْنِ وَالْبُخْلِ، وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ غَلَبَةِ الدَّيْنِ وَقَهْرِ الرِّجَالِ
O Allah, I seek refuge in You from grief and distress, I seek refuge in You from disability and laziness, I seek refuge in You from cowardice and stinginess, and I seek refuge in You from the overwhelming of debt and the subjugation 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-rijali.
When to Read
When feelings of inadequacy or self-doubt creep in, especially when facing new challenges or responsibilities. This dua is perfect for reciting when you feel overwhelmed by the pressure to perform or question your abilities, reminding you to rely on Allah's strength.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincere intention and conviction. Raise your hands slightly, as you would in supplication, and focus on the meaning of each phrase. Imagine seeking Allah's protection from these negative feelings that hinder your progress and peace of mind. It's best recited after your obligatory prayers or at any time you feel the need for this specific refuge.
Virtues & Benefits
This powerful supplication directly addresses several forms of inner turmoil that contribute to self-doubt and imposter syndrome. Seeking refuge from grief and distress (hamm and hazan) helps calm the anxious mind. Protection from inability and laziness ('ajz and kasal) bolsters the spirit to act and strive. Guarding against cowardice and stinginess (jubn and bukhl) fosters courage and generosity, essential for stepping out of your comfort zone. Finally, seeking refuge from overwhelming debt and the subjugation of men (ghalabatid-dayn wa qahrir-rijal) reinforces reliance on Allah alone, freeing you from the fear of external judgment or pressure.
Source & Authentication
Narrated Abu Huraira: The Prophet (ﷺ) used to invoke: 'O Allah, I seek refuge in You from grief and distress, from disability and laziness, from cowardice and stinginess, and from the overwhelming of debt and the subjugation of men.' (Sahih al-Bukhari 6369)