إِنَّا لِلَّٰهِ وَإِنَّـا إِلَيْهِ رَاجِعُونَ، اللَّهُمَّ أْجُرْنِي فِي مُصِيبَتِي وَاخْلُفْ لِي خَيْرًا مِنْهَا
"Surely, we belong to Allah, and to Him shall we return. O Allah, reward me in my affliction and give me something better than it."
Innā lillāhi wa innā ilayhi rāji'ūn. Allāhumma-jurni fī muṣībatī, wa-khlif lī khayran minhā.
When to Read
This is a profound supplication taught by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ for moments of profound grief and loss, such as the death of a loved one, a devastating accident, or any calamitous event. Recite it immediately upon hearing of the loss and continue to do so as needed, allowing its meaning to seep into your heart.
How to Read
Say this dua with sincere submission and acceptance of Allah's decree. Understand that 'Innā lillāhi wa innā ilayhi rāji'ūn' is a recognition of our ultimate belonging to Allah and the transient nature of this life. The second part is a plea for divine compensation and ease in your hardship. Focus on the meaning as you recite it, letting it comfort and strengthen you.
Virtues & Benefits
Reciting this dua when afflicted brings immense reward and comfort. It acknowledges Allah's sovereignty, helping to instill patience and acceptance. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ promised that whoever says this when facing a calamity, Allah will reward them for their suffering and replace their loss with something better. This promise is a profound source of hope and solace, reminding us that even in our darkest moments, Allah's mercy and wisdom are present.
Source & Authentication
Umm Salamah (may Allah be pleased with her) reported: I heard the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) saying: "Any servant of Allah is afflicted with calamity and says, 'We belong to Allah and to Him we return; O Allah, reward me for my affliction and give me something better than it in exchange,' but Allah gives him that which is better than it in exchange." Umm Salamah said: When Abu Salamah died, I said the words the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) had commanded me, and Allah gave me something better than him (in exchange) - i.e., I married the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ).