"The Prophet [SAW] used to say in his supplication: 'Allahumma inni a'udhu bika minal-kasali, wal-harami, wal-jubni, wal-bukhli, wa fitnatid-dajjali, wa 'adhabil-qabr (O Allah, I seek refuge in You from laziness, old age, cowardice, miserliness, the tribulation of the Dajjal and the torment of the grave.)"
The Book of Seeking Refuge with Allah
Sunan an-Nasa'i - Hadith 5451
Textual Analysis
This noble supplication contains six specific matters from which the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) sought protection with Allah. Each represents a spiritual or worldly affliction that can hinder a believer's path to Allah.
Commentary on the Refuge-Seeking
From Laziness (al-Kasali): Laziness prevents the performance of religious obligations and worldly duties. The seeker asks protection from this spiritual paralysis that distances one from Allah's obedience.
From Old Age (al-Harami): Scholars interpret this as the weakness and incapacity that comes with advanced age, which may prevent one from performing acts of worship, or as the disgraceful deeds that might accompany old age.
From Cowardice (al-Jubni): This refers to the fear that prevents one from speaking truth, defending Islam, or fulfilling obligations of enjoining good and forbidding evil.
From Miserliness (al-Bukhli): The Prophet sought protection from withholding what should rightfully be given - whether wealth, knowledge, or assistance - as miserliness corrupts the soul and society.
From the Tribulation of Dajjal: This refers to the great trial that will occur before the Day of Judgment, where many will be led astray by the False Messiah's miracles and deception.
From the Torment of the Grave: The punishment that may befall the sinful in the intermediate realm between death and resurrection, from which the believers seek Allah's protection.
Wisdom and Benefits
This comprehensive supplication covers spiritual diseases (laziness, cowardice, miserliness), physical weaknesses (old age), eschatological trials (Dajjal), and posthumous punishments (grave torment). It demonstrates the Prophet's concern for his ummah's comprehensive well-being in this life and the hereafter.
The selection of these specific matters indicates their particular danger to a Muslim's faith and practice. Regular recitation of this du'a serves as both protection and constant reminder of these spiritual pitfalls.