"Say, O Allah, we seek refuge with Thee from the torment of Hell. And I seek refuge with Thee from the torment of the grave, and I seek refuge with Thee from the trial of al-Masih ad-Dajjal, and I seek refuge with Thee from the trial of life and death." Muslim b. Hajjaj said: It has reached me that Tawus said to his son: Did you make this supplication in prayer? He said: No. (Upon this) he (Tawus) said: Repeat the prayer. Tawus has narrated this hadith through three or four (transmitters) with words to the same effect.
The Book of Mosques and Places of Prayer - Sahih Muslim 590
This narration from Sahih Muslim contains a comprehensive supplication seeking refuge in Allah from four major trials: the torment of Hell, the torment of the grave, the trial of al-Masih ad-Dajjal (the False Messiah), and the trials of life and death.
Commentary on the Four Protections
The torment of Hell represents the ultimate consequence of disbelief and major sins, while the torment of the grave refers to the intermediate state between death and resurrection where souls experience preliminary recompense.
Al-Masih ad-Dajjal signifies the greatest trial in human history - a false messiah who will claim divinity and mislead many believers. Seeking refuge from this demonstrates recognition of human vulnerability to deception.
The trials of life and death encompass all worldly temptations, hardships, and the final moments of life when faith is most tested.
Scholarly Insights
The incident with Tawus and his son establishes the importance of this specific supplication within prayer. Tawus's instruction to repeat the prayer indicates this du'a holds significant merit and should not be omitted.
Classical scholars note that this comprehensive protection covers the major phases of existence: worldly life, death, the grave, and the hereafter, making it a complete spiritual safeguard.
The multiple chains of transmission mentioned by Imam Muslim reinforce the authenticity and importance of this teaching within Islamic tradition.