اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنَ الْعَجْزِ وَالْكَسَلِ، وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنَ الْجُبْنِ وَالْبُخْلِ، وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ غَلَبَةِ الدَّيْنِ وَقَهْرِ الرِّجَالِ. اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ فِعْلَ الْخَيْرَاتِ، وَتَرْكَ الْمُنْكَرَاتِ، وَحُبَّ الْمَسَاكِينِ، وَأَنْ تَغْفِرَ لِي وَتَرْحَمَنِي، وَإِذَا أَرَدْتَ بِعِبَادِكَ فِتْنَةً فَتَوَفَّنِي إِلَيْكَ غَيْرَ مُفْتُونٍ.
O Allah, I seek refuge in You from helplessness and laziness, and I seek refuge in You from cowardice and stinginess, and I seek refuge in You from being overwhelmed by debt and from being overcome by men. O Allah, I ask You for the deeds of goodness, and to abandon the evil deeds, and to love the poor, and that You forgive me and have mercy on me. And if You intend to try Your servants with a trial, then take me to Yourself without [being tempted by] the trial.
Allahumma inni 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. Allahumma inni as'aluka fi'lal-khayrati, wa tarkal-munkarati, wa hubbal-masakini, wa an taghfira li wa tarhamani, wa idha aradta bi'ibadika fitnatan fa tawaffani ilaika ghaira maftuniin.
When to Read
This dua is incredibly relevant when you feel the weight of personal failures. Perhaps a business venture didn't work out, a relationship ended, or you stumbled in your religious practice. When you feel inadequate, incapable, or defeated, turn to this supplication. It's a powerful way to acknowledge your struggles while seeking strength and refuge from the One who never fails.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity, looking towards the Qiblah if possible. Raise your hands slightly, as the Prophet ﷺ used to do when making du'a for refuge. Understand that you are seeking refuge in Allah from states that can paralyze you – helplessness, laziness, fear, and miserliness – all of which can hinder your ability to move forward after a setback. Focus on the request for Allah to enable you to do good, avoid evil, and embrace humility, which are crucial for growth. The final part is a plea for protection from trials, indicating a desire to remain steadfast even in difficult times.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua directly addresses the internal struggles that often accompany failure, such as feelings of helplessness and laziness. By seeking refuge in Allah from these states, you are actively combating the psychological impact of setbacks. It also reminds us of the importance of striving for good deeds, avoiding sin, and maintaining humility (love for the poor) – qualities that are essential for recovery and spiritual progress. The ultimate goal is to be taken by Allah in a state of faithfulness, demonstrating a deep reliance on His mercy and protection.
Source & Authentication
Narrated Abu Huraira: The Prophet ﷺ used to seek refuge in Allah with the following supplication: 'O Allah, I seek refuge in You from helplessness and laziness, and I seek refuge in You from cowardice and stinginess, and I seek refuge in You from being overwhelmed by debt and from being overcome by men.' Abu Huraira added: 'I added (to this du'a): O Allah, I ask You for the deeds of goodness, and to abandon the evil deeds, and to love the poor, and that You forgive me and have mercy on me, and if You intend to try Your servants with a trial, then take me to Yourself without [being tempted by] the trial. I asked the Prophet ﷺ about these words, and he said, 'O Abu Huraira, indeed they are the best words for seeking refuge.'