Anas said, "The most frequent supplication of the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, was, 'O Allah, give us good in this world and good in the Next World and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.'"
The Comprehensive Supplication
This noble hadith from Anas ibn Malik, recorded in Imam al-Bukhari's "Al-Adab Al-Mufrad" (Hadith 682), presents the most frequent supplication of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. The prayer, "O Allah, give us good in this world and good in the Next World and protect us from the punishment of the Fire," embodies the perfect balance a Muslim should seek in life.
Scholarly Commentary
The phrase "good in this world" (khayr fid-dunya) encompasses all beneficial aspects of worldly life: health, lawful provision, righteous family, beneficial knowledge, and contentment. It does not refer to mere material accumulation but to what truly benefits one's faith and existence.
"Good in the Next World" (khayr fil-akhirah) primarily denotes Paradise and its everlasting blessings, along with the means to attain it: sincere faith, good deeds, divine acceptance, and a favorable judgment on the Day of Resurrection.
The concluding plea for protection from "the punishment of the Fire" serves as a safeguard, seeking Allah's mercy to avoid the ultimate consequence of sin and disbelief. This comprehensive du'a covers all temporal and eternal needs of a believer in the most concise manner.
Wisdom and Implementation
The Prophet's ﷺ consistent repetition of this supplication teaches us to prioritize comprehensive goodness over specific, limited requests. It reflects proper prioritization—seeking what truly matters in both temporary and permanent abodes.
Scholars note that this du'a appears in the Qur'an (2:201) and was adopted by the Prophet ﷺ as his most frequent prayer, indicating its supreme importance. Muslims are encouraged to memorize and regularly recite this comprehensive prayer, especially after prescribed prayers, during travel, and at significant moments.