Anas ibn Malik said, "The Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, used to often say, 'O Allah, I seek refuge with You from worry, sorrow, incapacity, laziness, cowardice, avarice, being overburdened by debt and being overcome by other men.'"
Exegesis of the Prophetic Supplication
This profound invocation from the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ), transmitted through the noble companion Anas ibn Malik in Al-Adab Al-Mufrad 801, encompasses comprehensive protection from eight spiritual and worldly afflictions that hinder a believer's journey toward Allah.
Scholarly Commentary on the Refuge Sought
Worry (al-hamm): The pre-occupation of the heart with anticipated future hardships. Scholars note this differs from sorrow as it concerns what has not yet occurred.
Sorrow (al-hazan): Grief over past calamities and lost opportunities. The Prophet sought protection from both temporal anxieties and spiritual regrets.
Incapacity (al-'ajz): Weakness in performing righteous deeds and fulfilling obligations toward Allah and His creation.
Laziness (al-kasal): Negligence in seizing opportunities for worship and good works despite having capability.
Cowardice (al-jubn): Fear that prevents one from speaking truth or fulfilling religious obligations requiring courage.
Avarice (al-bukhl): Withholding what rightfully belongs to others, whether wealth, knowledge, or assistance.
Overburdened by Debt (ghalabat ad-dayn): Financial oppression that distracts from worship and may lead to unlawful means of repayment.
Overcome by Men (qahr ar-rijal): Being dominated or oppressed by others, losing one's dignity and religious integrity.
Wisdom and Spiritual Benefits
Imam Al-Munawi explains that this comprehensive supplication addresses both inward spiritual states and outward worldly circumstances. The Prophet's frequent repetition indicates the severity of these afflictions and the importance of seeking divine protection from them.
Scholars of "Sayings" note the progression from internal spiritual diseases (worry, sorrow) to deficiencies in capability (incapacity, laziness) to moral failings (cowardice, avarice) culminating in external oppressions (debt, domination). This reflects the holistic Islamic approach to human well-being.