The Messenger of Allah [SAW] used to say in his supplication: "Allahumma, inni a'udhu bika min 'adhabi jahannama, wa a'udhu bika min 'adhabil-qabri, wa a'udhu bika min fitnatil-masihid-dajjali, wa a'udhu bika min fitnatil-mahya wal-mamat (O Allah, I seek refuge with You from the torment of Hell, and I seek refuge in You from the torment of the grave, and I seek refuge in You from the tribulation of the Al-Masihid-Dajjal, and I seek refuge with You from the trials of life and death.)"
The Book of Seeking Refuge with Allah
Sunan an-Nasa'i - Hadith 5514
Textual Analysis
This comprehensive supplication encompasses four fundamental protections every believer should seek: from Hell's punishment, grave's torment, Dajjal's trial, and life/death tribulations.
The Prophet's consistent repetition of "a'udhu bika" (I seek refuge with You) emphasizes complete reliance on Allah alone for protection.
Commentary on Hell's Torment
Seeking refuge from Jahannam acknowledges Allah's justice while hoping for His mercy. The wise believer fears what Allah has threatened and hopes for what He has promised.
This portion teaches that salvation from Hell isn't through one's deeds alone but through Allah's protection and mercy.
Commentary on Grave's Torment
The grave is either a garden from Paradise or a pit from Hell. Seeking refuge recognizes the grave as the first station of the Hereafter where questioning occurs and preliminary recompense begins.
This teaches awareness of the unseen world and preparation for the intermediate realm (barzakh).
Commentary on Dajjal's Trial
Al-Masih ad-Dajjal represents the ultimate trial of faith before Judgment Day. His deception will challenge even the steadfast, making divine protection essential.
This seeking refuge prepares believers for the greatest fitnah and emphasizes the need for sound creed to recognize falsehood.
Commentary on Life and Death Trials
"Fitnat al-mahya" includes trials of wealth, family, desires, and doubts during life. "Fitnat al-mamat" refers to trials at death moment - Satan's final attempts to mislead the dying.
This comprehensive protection covers all temporal and spiritual challenges from cradle to grave, ensuring steadfastness in faith throughout one's earthly journey.
Scholarly Benefits
This supplication combines protection from both worldly and otherworldly harms, covering the complete spectrum of human vulnerability.
It teaches prioritization - seeking refuge from spiritual dangers before material ones, recognizing that the soul's safety supersedes bodily protection.
The Prophet's example makes this a comprehensive daily protection encompassing all dimensions of existence.