When the Messenger of Allah [SAW] supplicated, he would say: "Allahumma inni a'udhu bika minal-hammi, wal-hazani, wal-'ajzi, wal-kasali, wal-bukhli, wal-jubni, wad-dala'id-daini, wa ghalabatir-rijal (O Allah, I seek refuge with You from worry, grief, incapacity, laziness, miserliness, cowardice, difficult debt and being overpowered by men.)"
The Book of Seeking Refuge with Allah - Sunan an-Nasa'i 5453
This authentic narration from the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) contains profound spiritual wisdom regarding seeking protection from eight specific afflictions that commonly affect human beings in their worldly and spiritual lives.
Commentary on the Eight Protections Sought
Worry (Al-Hamm): The scholars explain this refers to anxiety about future matters that have not yet occurred. The Prophet sought refuge from such preoccupations that distract the heart from Allah.
Grief (Al-Hazan): This denotes sorrow over past events that cannot be changed. The seeker asks Allah to protect them from being consumed by regret and sadness over what has passed.
Incapacity (Al-'Ajz): This refers to weakness and inability to perform righteous deeds or fulfill obligations. The believer seeks strength and capability from Allah alone.
Laziness (Al-Kasal): Scholars identify this as negligence in performing acts of worship and good deeds. It is the opposite of spiritual diligence and vigilance.
Miserliness (Al-Bukhl): This encompasses withholding both wealth and knowledge that should be shared. The Prophet sought protection from this spiritual disease that hardens the heart.
Cowardice (Al-Jubn): This refers to fear of speaking truth or standing for justice when required. The believer seeks courage to fulfill religious obligations.
Difficult Debt (Dala'id-Dain): The scholars explain this as debt that becomes burdensome and difficult to repay, potentially leading to humiliation or injustice.
Being Overpowered by Men (Ghalabatir-Rijal): This refers to being dominated or oppressed by others, losing one's dignity and rights to worldly powers.
Spiritual Benefits and Wisdom
This comprehensive supplication covers both spiritual and worldly concerns, demonstrating the Prophet's concern for the complete well-being of his ummah. The order reflects a progression from internal spiritual states to external worldly challenges.
The scholars emphasize that regularly reciting this du'a strengthens one's reliance on Allah, purifies intentions, and protects against common human weaknesses that hinder spiritual progress and worldly success.