By reciting du’as when waking up, Muslims can express gratitude to Allah (SWT) for the gift of a new day. We acknowledge that ultimately, everyone will return to Him, so it’s important to keep remembrance of Allah at the forefront of our minds.
Below are some du’as to recite upon waking up.
Du’a upon waking
Recite this du’a when you wake up from sleep:
Alhamdulillahilladhee ahyana ba’da ma amatana wa ilayhin-nushoor.
الحَمْـدُ لِلّهِ الّذي أَحْـيانا بَعْـدَ ما أَماتَـنا وَإليه النُّـشور
All praise belongs to Allah Who has restored us back to life after causing us to die; and to Him shall we return.
Hadith | Bukhari
Du’a for forgiveness and refuge from evil (The best dua for forgiveness)
The following du’a is commonly known as Sayidul Istighfaar – the leader of all repentance.
The Prophet (ﷺ) is reported as saying that the following supplication is a way for a believer to seek forgiveness from Allah.
He added:
If somebody recites it during the day with firm faith in it, and dies on the same day before the evening, he will be from the people of Paradise; and if somebody recites it at night with firm faith in it, and dies before the morning, he will be from the people of Paradise.
Hadith | Bukhari
Therefore, you should recite this du’a upon waking up:
Allahumma anta rabbi la ilaha illa anta, khalaqtani wa-ana ‘abduk, wa-ana ‘ala ‘ahdika wawa‘dika mas-tata‘t, a‘oothu bika min sharri ma sana‘t, aboo-o laka bini‘matika ‘alay, wa-aboo-o bithanbee, faghfir lee fa-innahu la yaghfiru-thunaba illa ant.
O Allah! You are my Rabb. There is no true god except You. You have created me, and I am Your slave, and I hold to Your Covenant as far as I can. I seek refuge in You from the evil of what I have done. I acknowledge the favours that You have bestowed upon me, and I confess my sins. Pardon me, for none but You has the power to pardon.
Du’a for protection from all forms of harm
The Prophet (ﷺ) said:
He who says in the morning and the evening of each day: ‘In the name of Allah with Whose Name there is protection against every kind of harm in the earth or in the heaven, and He is the All-Hearing and All- Knowing),’ nothing will harm him.
Hadith | Tirmidhi
Recite this supplication three times after waking:
Bismillahil-ladhi la yadurru ma’as-mihi shai’un fil-ardi wa la fis-sama’i, wa Huwas-Sami’ul-‘Alim.
بسم الله الذي لا يضر مع اسمه شيء في الأرض ولا في السماء وهو السميع العليم
In the Name of Allah with Whose Name there is protection against every kind of harm in the earth or in the heaven, and He is the All-Hearing and All- Knowing),’ nothing will harm him.
Du’a for the morning and evening
It was reported by Abu Dawood that the Prophet (ﷺ) said: “There is no Muslim – or no person, or slave (of Allah) – who says, in the morning and evening: ‘Radhitu billahi Rabban wa bil-Islami dinan wa bi Muhammadin nabiyyan (I am content with Allah as my Lord, Islam as my religion and Muhammad as my Prophet),’ but he will have a promise from Allah to make him pleased on the Day of Resurrection”.
Recite this du’a three times when you wake up as follows:
Radhitu Billahi Rabba wabil-Islāmi dīnan wa bi-Muḥammadin nabiyyan.
I am pleased with Allah as Lord, with Islam as religion and with Muhammad (ﷺ) as my Prophet.
Hadith | Abu Dawud
Du’a for the morning
The following du’a should be recited to remember Allah in the morning:
As-bah-na wa as-ba-hal mulku lil-lahi rabbil-aa-la-mîn. Allahumma innî as’aluka khay-ra ha-zal-yawm, fat-ha-hu wa nas-ra-hu, wa nu-ra-hu wa bara-ka-ta-hu wa hu-da-hu, Wa aa-u-zu bika min shar-ri ma fîhi, wa shar-ri ma ba’-dah.
We have entered upon the morning, and the whole kingdom of Allah, too, has entered upon morning. Praise is due to Allah. There is none who has the right to be worshipped but Allah, the One who has no partner with Him. His is the Sovereignty and to Him is praise due and He is Potent over everything. My Lord, I beg of Thee good that lies in this day and good that follows it and I seek refuge in Thee from the evil that lies in this day and from the evil of that which follows it. My Lord, I seek refuge in Thee from sloth, from the evil of vanity. My Lord, I seek refuge in Thee from torment of the Hell-Fire and from torment of the grave.
Hadith | Abu Dawud
May Allah accept all our efforts, Ameen! Explore our du’a hub and find out more about essential du’as here.
Our health is a gift from Allah, and the Qur’an and Sunnah contain various prayers and du’as for health, maintaining our wellbeing or praying for recovery from illnesses.
In many hadiths, Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) used verses of the Qur’an and du’as to ask Allah to heal and cure his companions and himself of various illnesses.
These du’as serve not only as a way to ask Allah for physical healing, but also to provide strength during times of adversity.
Here are some du’as for health and healing:
Du’a to cure illness
It is Sunnah to read the 3 Quls (Surah al-Ikhlas, Surah al-Falaq and Surah an-Nas) three times in the morning and evening, three times before going to sleep, once after every Salāh, and when you are sick.
Say Bismillah before each surah and recite the following:
Surah al-Ikhlas
Qul Huwa-llāhu Aḥad. Allāhu-ṣ-Ṣamad. Lam yalid wa lam yūlad. Wa lam yakul-lahū kufuwan aḥad.
Say, He is Allah, the One, the Self-Sufficient Master, Who has not given birth and was not born, and to Whom no one is equal.
Surah al-Falaq
Qul aʿūdhu bi-Rabbi-l-falaq. Min sharri mā khalaq. Wa min sharri ghāsiqin idhā waqab. Wa min sharri-n-naffāthāti fi-l-ʿuqad. Wa min sharri ḥāsidin idhā ḥasad.
Say, I seek protection of the Lord of the daybreak, from the evil of what He has created, and from the evil of the darkening night when it settles, and from the evil of the blowers in knots, and from the evil of the envier when he envies.
Say, I seek protection of the Lord of mankind, the King of mankind, the God of mankind, from the evil of the whisperer who withdraws, who whispers in the hearts of mankind, whether they be Jinn or people.
A’ishah (RA), the third wife of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) narrates that whenever the Prophet (ﷺ) would become sick, he would recite [the last 3 Surahs of the Qur’an] and then blow over his body. She says:
“During his last illness from which he passed away, the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) used to blow over himself. But when his sickness intensified, I used to (recite and then) blow over him using his own hands because of their blessings.”
Hadith | Bukhari
In another hadith, it’s said that whenever anyone from his family would become ill, the Prophet (ﷺ) would blow over them with these three Surahs. [Hadith | Muslim]
Du’a for good health
It is recommended to recite the following du’a three times in the morning and evening, asking Allah for good physical health, in sight and in hearing.
Allahumma ‘Aafinee fee badani, Allahumma ‘Aafinee fee sam’ee, Allahumma ‘Aafinee fee basari, La ilaha illa Anta.
اللّهُـمَّ عافِـني في بَدَنـي ، اللّهُـمَّ عافِـني في سَمْـعي ، اللّهُـمَّ عافِـني في بَصَـري ، لا إلهَ إلاّ أَنْـتَ
O Allah, make me healthy in my body. O Allah, preserve for me my hearing. O Allah, preserve for me my sight. There is none worthy of worship but You.
Du’a for health recovery
Surah Al-Fatihah is recommended as a form of ruqyah (healing through Qur’an). It is said that a companion of the Prophet (ﷺ) recited it over a scorpion bite which Allah then cured. The Prophet (ﷺ) smiled and asked him: “How did you know that Surah Al-Fatihah is ruqyah?” [Hadith | Sahih al-Bukhari].
O Allah, the Lord of mankind, remove the difficulty and bring about healing as You are the Healer. There is no healing except Your healing, a healing that will leave no ailment.
Alongside making dua for recovery and protection, the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) also encouraged his followers to seek healing through other means such as reciting Qur’anic verses, using natural remedies, and seeking medical treatment.
Du’a when visiting the sick
When visiting someone who was sick, the Prophet (PBUH) would say:
La ba’sa tahurun insha’Allah
لَا بَأْسَ طَهُورٌ إِنْ شَاءَ اللَّهُ
No harm, (it will be a) purification (from sins), if Allah wills.
May Allah grant us all good health and swift recovery from illnesses, Ameen! Explore our du’a hub and find out more about essential du’as here.
Facing anxiety and worry can be a distressing time, and when faced with hardships, it’s important to remember:
Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear.
Qur’an | Surah Baqarah | 2:286
Prayers should not be seen as a substitute to professional help, and here at Islamic Relief, we encourage those who are facing severe anxiety to seek guidance from professionals.
There are, however, some du’as you can recite when faced with anxiety.
Du’a for Anxiety
For relief from anxiety and sorrow, recite this du’a:
Allahumma innee a’uzubika min alhammi wal huzni wal ajzi wal kasli wal bukhli wal jubni wa dala’id dayni wa galabatir rijaal.
O Allah, I take refuge in you from anxiety and sorrow, weakness and laziness, miserliness and cowardice, the burden of debts and from being overpowered by men.
Hadith | Sahih Al-Bukhari
Du’a for Stress
During times of distress, you can recite the following:
Hasbunallahu wa ni’mal wakeel
حَسْبُنَا ٱللَّهُ وَنِعْمَ ٱلْوَكِيلُ
Allah is sufficient for us, and He is the best disposer of affairs.
Qur’an | Surah Ali-Imran | 3:173
Du’a for Depression
To dispel the gloom of depression, recite the following:
Allahumma Akhrijnee min adhulumaati ilaa annur
اللهم اخرجني من الظلمات إلى النور
Oh Allah take me out of darkness and into the light.
Du’a for Worry
When facing a difficult task, the following du’a can be recited:
La hawla wa la quwwata illa billah.
لَا حَوْلَ وَلَا قُوَّةَ إِلَّا بِالله
There is no power or strength except with Allah.
Hadith | Ibn Majah
Anas bin Malik said when the Prophet (ﷺ) would be afflicted with a stressful trial, he would say:
O Ever-Living, O Self-Subsisting Sustainer of all, I seek help through Your mercy!
Hadith | Tirmidhi
Recite the du’a as follows:
Yaa Hayyu yaa Qayyum, bi-rahmatika astaghith.
يَا حَيُّ يَا قَيُّوْمُ بِرَحْمَتِكَ أَسْتَغِيْث
O Ever-Living, O Self-Subsisting Sustainer of all, I seek help through Your mercy.
Hadith | Ibn Majah
May Allah grant us all with Sabr (patience) through our trials and tribulations and grant us ease, Ameen! Explore our du’a hub and find out more about essential du’as here.
As we get ready for bed after a long day, it’s important to keep remembrance of Allah (SWT) at the forefront of our minds. This can be done by reciting various du’as for sleeping and waking.
It was reported that whenever the Prophet (ﷺ) lay down for sleep at night, he would place his (right) hand under his (right) cheek and supplicate: “Allahumma bismika amutu wa ahya. (O Allah, with Your name I die and I live).” And when he woke up, he would supplicate: “Al-hamdu lillahil-ladhee ahyana ba’da ma amatana, wa ilaihin-nushur. (All praise is due to Allah, who gave us life after causing us to die and to Him is the resurrection).” [Hadith | Al-Bukhari].
Here are some du’as for sleeping and waking:
Du’a Before Sleeping
Before you sleep, recite the following:
Allahumma bismika amutu wa ahya
اللَّهُمَّ بِاسْمِكَ أَمُوتُ وَأَحْيَا
O Allah, with Your name I die and I live.
Du’a for Peaceful Sleep
It was reported that when Khalid ibn al-Walid told Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), “I have nightmares,” the Prophet said to him:
“Say, ‘I seek refuge with the complete words of Allah from His anger and His punishment and the evil of His slaves, and from the evil suggestions of the shayatin and from their being present (at death).’
Hadith | Tirmidhi & Abu Dawud
Therefore, you should recite the following if you experience nightmares:
Qul audhu bi kalimati’ llahi’t-tammati min ghadabihi wa iqabihi wa sharri ibadihi wa min hamazati’ sh-shayatin wa an yahdurun.
I seek refuge in the perfect words of Allah from His anger and punishment, from the evil of His servants, and from the madness and appearance of devils.
Du’a for Difficulty Sleeping
If you find yourself tossing and turning during the night, this du’a can be recited:
Lā ilāha illallāhal-Wāḥidul-Qahhār. Rabbus-samāwāti wa ‘l-arḍi wa mā baynahumaal-`Azīzul-Ghaffār.
There is none worthy of worship but Allah, the One, the Victorious, Lord of the heavens and the earth and all that is between them, the All-Mighty, the All-Forgiving.
Du’a for forgiveness and refuge from evil
The Prophet (ﷺ) is reported as saying that the following supplication is a way for a believer to seek forgiveness from Allah.
He added:
If somebody recites it during the day with firm faith in it, and dies on the same day before the evening, he will be from the people of Paradise; and if somebody recites it at night with firm faith in it, and dies before the morning, he will be from the people of Paradise.
Hadith | Bukhari
Therefore, you should recite this du’a before sleeping:
Allahumma anta rabbi la ilaha illa anta, khalaqtani wa-ana ‘abduk, wa-ana ‘ala ‘ahdika wawa‘dika mas-tata‘t, a‘oothu bika min sharri ma sana‘t, aboo-o laka bini‘matika ‘alay, wa-aboo-o bithanbee, faghfir lee fa-innahu la yaghfiru-thunaba illa ant.
O Allah! You are my Rabb. There is no true god except You. You have created me, and I am Your slave, and I hold to Your Covenant as far as I can. I seek refuge in You from the evil of what I have done. I acknowledge the favours that You have bestowed upon me, and I confess my sins. Pardon me, for none but You has the power to pardon.
Du’a for protection from harm
The Prophet (ﷺ) said:
He who says in the morning and the evening of each day: ‘In the name of Allah with Whose Name there is protection against every kind of harm in the earth or in the heaven, and He is the All-Hearing and All- Knowing),’ nothing will harm him.
Hadith | Tirmidhi
Recite this supplication three times before sleeping:
Bismillahil-ladhi la yadurru ma’as-mihi shai’un fil-ardi wa la fis-sama’i, wa Huwas-Sami’ul-‘Alim.
بسم الله الذي لا يضر مع اسمه شيء في الأرض ولا في السماء وهو السميع العليم
In the Name of Allah with Whose Name there is protection against every kind of harm in the earth or in the heaven, and He is the All-Hearing and All- Knowing),’ nothing will harm him.
Du’a for the morning and evening
It was reported by Abu Dawood that the Prophet (ﷺ) said:
There is no Muslim – or no person, or slave (of Allah) – who says, in the morning and evening: ‘Radhitu billahi Rabban wa bil-Islami dinan wa bi Muhammadin nabiyyan (I am content with Allah as my Lord, Islam as my religion and Muhammad as my Prophet),’ but he will have a promise from Allah to make him pleased on the Day of Resurrection.
Hadith | Ibn Majah
Recite this du’a three times before you go to sleep as follows:
Radhitu Billahi Rabba wabil-Islāmi dīnan wa bi-Muḥammadin nabiyyan.
As Muslims, we often seek protection from Allah (SWT) in different aspects of life. We ask Allah to safeguard us against all forms of harm, evil and danger, and make various du’as for protection.
Allah is Al-Muhaymin (ٱلْمُهَيْمِنُ), meaning the one who ensures wellbeing and protection over His creation.
Here are a few du’as and supplications you can recite to seek protection.
Du’as for Protection
There are some du’as we can recite when seeking protection from general harm. These can be for a range of situations including:
When seeking protection from evil
A’udhu billahi minash-shaytanir-rajim
أعوذ بالله من الشيطان الرجيم
I seek refuge in Allah from Satan the accursed.
Protection from evil eye
It is recommended that individuals recite du’as for protection from the evil eye regularly, seeking Allah’s help and healing in times of need.
Rabbi ‘a`outhubika min hamazaatish-shayaateeni, wa ‘a`outhu bika rabbi ‘ay-yahdhuroon.
My Lord! I seek refuge with You from the whisperings (suggestions) of the Shayatin (devils). And I seek refuge with You, My Lord! lest they may attend (or come near) me.
Qur’an | Surah Al-Mu’minūn | 23:97-98
Protection from calamities
This du’a can be recited for protection against calamities, asking Allah to help us through any crisis:
Allah humma‘h fathny min bayne yaday wa min khalfi, wa‘an yameeny wa ‘an shimaly, wa min fawqi, wa a’uthu bi ‘athamatika an ughtaala min tahty.
O Allah protect me from my front, behind me, from my right and my left, and from above me, and I seek refuge in Your Magnificence from being taken unaware from beneath me.
Hadith | Ibn Majah
Du’as for Protection from Illness
According to Abu Dawud, the Prophet (peace be upon him) used to supplicate this du’a for protection from illness. This du’a carries an important reminder that our refuge is always in Allah (SWT):
Allah humma inni a’udhu bika minal-barasi, wal-jununi, wal-judhaami, wa min sayyi’il-asqaami
O Allah, I seek refuge in You from leprosy, insanity, elephantiasis, and the worst of diseases.
Hadith | Abu Dawud
It is also narrated that Aisha, the third wife of the Prophet (PBUH) said that when anyone among them had an illness, the Prophet would rub the area of the pain and recite the following du’a:
اللَّهُمَّ ربَّ النَّاسِ ، أَذْهِب الْبَأسَ ، واشْفِ ، أَنْتَ الشَّافي لا شِفَاءَ إِلاَّ شِفَاؤُكَ ، شِفاءً لا يُغَادِرُ سقَماً
O Allah, Lord of mankind, do away with my suffering. Heal (me) as You are the only Healer and there is no cure except that of Yours, it is that which leaves no ailment behind.
Hadith | Sahih Al-Bukhari
May Allah forgive us all for our shortcomings and make us among the righteous people, Ameen! Explore our du’a hub and find out more about essential du’as here.
During the month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from the hours between sunrise to sunset, refraining from eating, drinking and looking to better ourselves in this blessed month for the sake of Allah (SWT). There are various du’as for fasting which we recite during this month.
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
There are three whose du’as are not rejected: a just ruler, the fasting person when he breaks his fast and the prayer of the oppressed person.
Hadith | Tirmidhi
While fasting and breaking our fast, it’s important to remember our reasons for doing it, and increase our remembrance of Allah.
Below are some du’as for fasting.
Du’a for breaking fast
As mentioned, the du’a of the fasting person at the time of breaking their fast is not rejected. It’s important to take this opportunity during Iftar time to put aside a few minutes to praise Allah and make sincere du’a.
When breaking your fast, you can recite the following du’a:
Dhahabadh-dhama’, wabtillatil ‘urooq, wa thabatal ajru inshaa’Allah.
As Muslims, we all commit sins and may sometimes stray from the right path, but it’s important to recognise when we have sinned and make sincere efforts to ask Allah (SWT) to forgive us. There are a few powerful du’as for forgiveness that we can recite.
Being able to recognise when we have sinned is a blessing from Allah and serves as guidance to repent.
Istighfar is the act of seeking forgiveness in Allah. In a Hadith, Abu Hurairah (RA), a companion of the Prophet (peace be upon him) reported:
I heard the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) saying: “By Allah, I seek Allah’s forgiveness and repent to Him more than seventy times a day.”
Hadith | Sahih Al-Bukhari
It has been narrated that the Prophet (ﷺ) sought forgiveness a hundred times daily, showing us the significance of this act.
Here are some du’as to recite when asking Allah for forgiveness.
Du’as for forgiveness
There are many supplications you can recite for forgiveness, here are just a few:
Recite Astaghfirullah more than 100 times
Seeking forgiveness is usually done by saying “Astaghfirullah” or the longer version “Astaghfirullāha rabbī wa-atūbu ilayhi)”.
As a beloved Sunnah, the Prophet (ﷺ) would say ‘Astaghfirullah’ more than 100 times daily, and this simple but powerful du’a is one of the best du’as for forgiveness.
I heard the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) saying: “By Allah, I seek Allah’s forgiveness and repent to Him more than seventy times a day.”
Hadith | Sahih Al-Bukhari
Recite the following:
Astaghfirullāh
أَسْتَغْفِرُ ٱللَّٰه
I seek forgiveness in God
Or the longer version:
Astaghfirullāha rabbī wa-atūbu ilayhi
أَسْتَغْفِرُ ٱللَّٰهَ رَبِّي وَأَتُوبُ إِلَيْهِ
I seek the forgiveness of God, my Lord, and turn to Him (in repentance).
Recite this verse from Surah Al-A’raf
You can recite the following verse from the Qur’an for forgiveness and mercy:
Rabbana zalamna anfusana wa-in lam taghfir lana wa-tarhamna la-nakunanna minal-khasirin
Our Lord, forgive me, my parents, and the believers on the Day of Reckoning.
Du’a for seeking forgiveness for your parents
To seek forgiveness for your parents, recite the following:
Rabbir hamhumaa kamaa rabbayaanee sagheera
رَبِّ ارْحَمْهُمَا كَمَا رَبَّيَانِي صَغِيرًا
My Lord, have mercy upon them as they brought me up [when I was] small.
Qur’an | Surah Al-Isra | 17:24
Du’a for forgiveness of past and future sins, those committed privately and publicly, and those we may not be aware of
Allahumma-ghfir lii maa qaddamtu wa maa akh-khortu wa maa asrortu wa maa a’lantu wa maa anta a’lamu bihi minnii, anta Al-Muqaddimu wa anta Al-Muakh-khiru wa anta alaa kulli shai-in qadir.
O Allah! Forgive me for those sins which I committed in the past and that which I may commit in the future, the sins that I have committed in privacy or in public and all the sins of which You are better aware of it than I am of myself. You are The One who bring forward and reprieve as You wish and indeed You are over all things capable.
Sahih Muslim
Du’a for forgiveness, removal of misdeeds and to join the righteous when we die
Rabbana fa-ghfir lana zunuubana wa-kaffir anna sayyi-aatina wa-tafawwafaa maal-abrar
Our Lord! Forgive our sins, remove from us our misdeeds, and grant that we join the righteous when we die.
Qur’an | Surah Al-Imran | 3:193
May Allah forgive us all for our shortcomings and make us among the righteous people, Ameen! Explore our du’a hub and find out more about essential du’as here.
Eating and drinking are essential to our lives and survival, but as Muslims, it’s important to remember that Allah (SWT) provided us with sustenance and the means for food and drink. It is recommended to recite du’as for before and after eating to show our appreciation and gratitude to Allah.
Anas ibn Malik narrates that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“Allah is pleased with a servant who eats a meal and praises Him for it, and drinks a drink and praises Him for it.”
Hadith | Muslim, Tirmidhi
Du’as for Before Eating
Umar ibn Abi Salama narrates, “I was a young boy in the care of the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ), and my hand would wander around the dish. The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said to me, ‘O boy, mention the name of Allah, eat with your right hand, and eat from what is in front of you.’ That became my eating habit thereafter.” [Hadith | Bukhari, Muslim]
The Prophet (ﷺ) said: “When any one of you eats food, let him say ‘Bismillah’”
Bismillah
بِسْمِ اللَّهِ
In the name of Allah
If you forget so say Bismillah before you eat, recite the following:
Bismillah fi awwalihi wa akhirihi
بِسْمِ اللَّهِ فِي أَوَّلِهِ وَآخِرِه
In the Name of Allah at the beginning and at the end.
Du’as for After Eating
You should recite this du’a after finishing a meal or drinking:
Alhamdulillahil-ladhi at’amana wa saqana, wa ja’alana minal muslimin
In Islam, making du’a (supplication) is a deeply spiritual act and is considered a direct means of communication between an individual and Allah.
Scholars advise adhering to certain practices when making du’a. Here, we will explore some of the etiquettes to bear in mind when making du’a.
“Supplication is the essence of worship”
Hadith | Tirmidhī
Displaying sincerity, humility, and submission before Allah
Displaying sincerity, humility, and submission before Allah can help deepen the connection with Allah and increase the likelihood of a supplication being accepted and answered.
A good way to do this is by first purifying our intentions and ensuring the supplication is primarily for a purpose to assist in earning the pleasure of Allah. Having complete tawaakal in Allah (trust in Allah) shows a sincere belief that it is only through Allah’s guidance and mercy that the prayer will be answered.
Sincerely submitting entirely to His will; with trust and contentment that whatever outcome He decrees is the best outcome, even if it doesn’t align with the immediate desires of the prayer, is a mark of faith and humility.
Engaging in heartfelt supplication with unwavering focus
Approaching du’a with sincerity, focus, and unwavering trust in Allah, helps in making heartfelt prayers that strengthen the relationship with Him, and brings one closer to His mercy and blessings.
To help focus and develop khushoo, or a still serenity, it’s recommended to find a peaceful and quiet place where you can concentrate without interruption. This may open pathways to acts of worship such as prayer, dhikr through Allah’s Beautiful Names (Asma ul-Husna), and reflection. This may open pathways to acts of worship such as prayer (Salah), remembrance (Dhikr) through Allah’s Beautiful Names (Asma ul-Husna), recitation of Quran (Qira’a) and reflection (Fikr).
Be completely vulnerable before Allah, in this quiet space, and share your heartfelt prayers. Be completely vulnerable and present before Allah.
Facing towards the Qiblah
Facing the Qiblah when making du’a is a recommended but not obligatory practice in Islam. Muslims can make du’a in any direction and at any time. However, facing the Qiblah is considered a praiseworthy practice for several reasons as it serves as the focal point of Muslim worship and can increase a sense of spiritual connection and awareness.
It is also Sunnah (tradition) of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) to face the Qiblah when making supplication, and Muslims try to follow the Prophet’s exemplary conduct.
“Everything has a master, and the master of religious circles is to face the Qibla.”
Hadith I Muslim and Bukhari
Directing towards the Qiblah during du’a is believed to increase the likelihood of one’s supplication being accepted by Allah. It is a way of demonstrating humility, obedience, and devotion to Allah, which are qualities that are conducive to having one’s prayers answered.
Observing wudhu before making the dua
Performing wudhu (ablution) before making du’a is encouraged but not obligatory in Islam. The ritual of wudhu itself is also a rewardable act. Being in this state can help individuals to approach Allah with a pure heart and soul, allowing for a more intimate and sincere interaction during supplication.
By performing wudhu before making du’a, Muslims humble themselves before Allah and acknowledge His greatness and authority.
Extending one’s hands towards Allah as a gesture of supplication
Extending one’s hands towards Allah as a gesture of supplication is a practice which is encouraged but is not compulsory. The act symbolises humility and neediness before the Creator. By physically raising one’s hands and palms upward, a person acknowledges their dependency on Allah and their humble submission to His will.
“Verily, your Lord is Generous and Shy. If His servant raises his hands to Him (in supplication) He becomes shy to return them empty”.
Hadith | Tirmidhi
Muslims emulate the actions of the Prophet as a means of following his Sunnah (traditions) and seeking closeness to Allah.
Commencing the du’a with words of praise for Allah and sending blessings upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ)
Commencing dua with words of praise for Allah and sending blessings upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) is a deeply ingrained practice in Islam. It reflects gratitude, reverence, and adherence to the Prophetic tradition.
Offering praise to Allah before making supplication is an expression of gratitude and also demonstrates acknowledgment of His countless blessings, mercy, and favours upon His servants. By praising Allah, Muslims express their recognition of His benevolence and their unwavering trust in His guidance and wisdom.
Muslims hold a deep love and reverence for the Prophet, and invoking blessings upon him is a way of expressing this love and seeking his help and intercession before Allah. By sending Salawat upon Allah’s beloved, our dua’s are much more likely to be answered.
Employing a variety of Allah’s Beautiful names to invoke Him during du’a
Reciting Allah’s beautiful names, or Asma al-Husna, to invoke Him during du’a is a highly recommended practice in Islam and was also a sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).
It helps Muslims deepen their understanding of Allah’s attributes and qualities, with each name signifying a unique attribute of God’s divine nature.
Some even recite different names according to the intent of their du’a, like saying “Ar-Rahman” (the Most Merciful) to seek Allah’s mercy and compassion, or “Al-Qadir” (the All-Powerful) in times of difficulty. By using Allah’s names in du’a, believers seek blessings and assistance tailored to their specific needs and circumstances.
Seeking repentance and forgiveness for sins and wrongdoings
Seeking repentance (tawbah) and forgiveness (istighfar) for sins and wrongdoings before making dua is an important practice as it’s believed to purify the soul, and also remove any barriers that may hinder the acceptance of supplications.
Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) is reported to have frequently sought forgiveness and repentance from Allah, even though he was free from sin. Muslims strive to emulate the actions and teachings of the Prophet (ﷺ) as a means of drawing closer to Allah and following his exemplary conduct.
Maintaining unwavering faith that Allah listens to and accepts the du’a
Allah has explicitly promised in the Quran that He listens to the prayers of those who call upon Him.
“And when My servants ask you concerning Me, indeed I am near. I respond to the invocation of the supplicant when he calls upon Me.”
Quran | 2:186
Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) also emphasised the importance of having faith in the acceptance of du’a.
“Call upon Allah while being certain of being answered and know that Allah does not respond to a supplication from the heart of one heedless and occupied by play.” [Hadith I Tirmidhi].
The Prophetic assurance encourages believers to maintain unwavering faith in the efficacy of du’a.
Concluding the du’a by offering salutations to the Prophet (ﷺ)
Ending a du’a by offering salutations to the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) is a practice deeply rooted in Islamic tradition.
Muslims hold a deep love and reverence for Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) as the messenger of divine guidance and mercy. Ending du’a with salutations is a way of expressing this love and respect and honouring the Prophet’s status as the best of creation and a mercy to all mankind.
Du’a (supplication) is a tool for Muslims to establish a profound connection and engage in direct communication with Allah (SWT). Du’a holds immense power – it serves as a means to seek His (SWT)’s guidance, assistance, and mercy.
Du’a involves invoking and calling upon Allah, showing our humility, and acknowledging our reliance on His boundless power and wisdom. Muslims use du’a during moments of joy, sorrow, hardship, or contentment, being fully aware that Allah is the ultimate source of solace and support.
Why do Muslims make Du’a?
Du’a is like having a personal conversation with our Creator. It allows us to express our thoughts and feelings directly to Allah. Just as we would regularly communicate with someone we love, du’a is our form of communication with our creator. We can use any language or words to ask for blessings and protection in this life and the Hereafter.
When someone we love continuously make requests from us, we may become distant from them. However Allah Almighty loves when we turn to Him and our earnest requests and supplications are accepted.
Du’a is a chance to share our deepest thoughts and seek Allah’s favour not only for ourselves but also for others, including our loved ones, those in need, and humanity.
Du’a is more than just communication or routine practice. It is considered the essence of worship because it shows that we believe only Allah has the power to grant or deny our wishes, desires, and ambitions. When we make du’a, we acknowledge our dependence on Allah and recognise His ultimate authority and control.
Allah (SWT) loves to hear His servant’s voice. He is constantly attentive to our prayers and supplications. Formal acts of worship, such as Salah, are not the only exclusive means of communicating with our Lord. Du’a has no timeframe, limit, or conditions- we are never disconnected or isolated from Him.
Ibn ʿAta’illah (may Allah be pleased with him) beautifully expressed that whenever Allah grants you the ability to speak and make a request, understand that He desires to bestow something upon you. Implying that wouldn’t have permitted you to make that duʿa (supplication) unless He intended to answer it. The greatest blessing of that supplication is that Allah loves to hear it, and as a result, you draw closer to Him.
Why is Du’a important?
“And when my servants ask you about Me, then tell them I am near. I answer the call of every believer when they call upon me so let them also answer my call and believe in me so they may find rightful guidance.”
Quran | Surah Al-Baqarah | 2:186
When we invoke Allah, He is near to us. This is the first gift. The second gift is that He answers our prayers in a manner that is suitable for us, in a way that benefits our worldly life and Hereafter, without putting us in harm’s way due to our limited understanding.
We can see how Merciful and Loving our Lord is, just by calling upon Him. Du’a is considered “the weapon of a believer” and it has the power to change fate with His help. Prophet (ﷺ) said:
“Dua diverts fate and good deeds lengthen the age”
Hadith | Tirimdhi
When to make du’a
In Islam, there are no specific time restrictions for making general dua. Muslims are encouraged to make supplications to Allah (SWT) at any time.
However, certain times are considered more auspicious for supplication. These times are mentioned in the teachings of Islam and are believed to hold special significance. Here are some of the optimal times for making dua:
The Night of ‘Qadr’ (Decree)
Abu Hurairah (RA) narrated that Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) said: “In the last third of every night our Rabb (Cherisher and Sustainer) (Allah (SWT)) descends to the lowermost heaven and says; ‘Who is calling Me, so that I may answer him? Who is asking Me so that may I grant him? Who is seeking forgiveness from Me so that I may forgive him?.’” [Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith Qudsi]
Late at night
When people are sleeping and busy with worldly pleasures Allah (SWT) gives the believers an opportunity, or an answer hour if they can fight sleep and invoke Allah (SWT) for whatever they need. The Prophet (ﷺ) said: ‘There is at night an hour, no Muslim happens to be asking Allah any matter of this world or the Hereafter, except that he will be given it, and this (occurs) every night.” [Hadith | Muslim]
Abu Hurairah (RA) narrated that Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) said: ‘In the last third of every night our Rabb (Cherisher and Sustainer) (Allah (SWT)) descends to the lowermost heaven and says; “Who is calling Me, so that I may answer him? Who is asking Me so that may I grant him? Who is seeking forgiveness from Me so that I may forgive him?.”‘ [Hadith| Bukhari]
Whilst travelling
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said; Three supplications will not be rejected (by Allah (SWT)), the supplication of the parent for his child, the supplication of the one who is fasting, and the supplication of the traveller. [Hadith | Tirmidhi]
A Muslim supplicating for a brother in their absence
The Prophet (ﷺ) said: “There is no believing servant who supplicates for his brother in his absence where the angels do not say, ‘the same be for you’” [Hadith | Muslim]
On the Day of Arafat
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: “The best supplication is the supplication on the day of Arafat.” [Hadith | Tirmidhi and Malik]
Dua after sending salawat (salutations) on the Prophet (ﷺ)
“When anyone of you makes du’a, let him start by glorifying his Lord and praising Him, then let him send blessings upon the Prophet (ﷺ), then let him pray for whatever he wants.” (Hadith | Tirmidhi).
An Hour On Friday
Narrated Abu Hurairah (RA): Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) talked about Friday and said: “There is an hour on Friday and if a Muslim gets it whilst praying and asks something from Allah (SWT), then Allah (SWT) will definitely meet his demand.” And he (the Prophet (ﷺ) pointed out the shortness of that particular time with his hands. [Hadith | Bukhari].
While Drinking Zamzam Water
Jaber (RA) narrated that Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) said: “Zamzam water is for what it is drunk for.” [Hadith | Ahmad]. This means that when you drink Zamzam water you may ask Allah (SWT) for anything you’d like to gain or benefit from this water such as healing from illness, etc.
First Ten days of Dhul-Hijjah
The Prophet (ﷺ) said: “There are no days during which good deeds are more beloved to Allah than during these ten days.” [Hadith | Bukhari]
Etiquettes of Du’a
Scholars advise adhering to certain practices when making Du’a. These etiquettes encompass:
Displaying sincerity, humility, and submission before Allah.
Engaging in heartfelt supplication with unwavering focus.
Facing towards the Qiblah (the direction of the Kaaba in Makkah).
Observing ritual purification (wudhu) before making the dua.
Extending one’s hands towards Allah as a gesture of supplication.
Commencing the du’a with words of praise for Allah and sending blessings upon the Prophet Muhammad(ﷺ).
Employing a variety of Allah’s Beautiful names to invoke Him during the du’a.
Seeking repentance and forgiveness for sins and wrongdoings.
Maintaining unwavering faith that Allah listens to and accepts the du’a.
Concluding the du’a by offering salutations to the Prophet (ﷺ).
Islam is a comprehensive, and complete way of life.It recognises the importance of maintaining a deep connection with Allah in every situation and at every moment. As a testament to this, we have special dua’s (supplications) for nearly every occasion, ensuring that we seek Allah’s blessings, protection, and guidance.
From the simple act of wearing new clothes to the profound experience of losing a loved one, Islam offers specific dua’s to be recited, reflecting the comprehensive nature of our relationship with Allah.
Here are some examples of important Du’as:
Du’a when waking up
Alhamdu lillaahil-lathee ‘ahyaanaa ba’da maa ‘amaatanaa wa’ilayhin-nushoor.
I bear witness that none has the right to be worshipped but Allah alone, Who has no partner; and I bear witness that Muhammad is His slave and His Messenger.
Du’a when getting dressed
Alhamdu lillaahil-lathee kasaanee haathaa (aththawba) wa razaqaneehi min ghayri hawlim-minnee wa laa quwwatin.
I bear witness that none has the right to be worshipped but Allah alone, Who has no partner; and I bear witness that Muhammad is His slave and His Messenger.
Du’a when it rains
Allaahumma sayyiban naafi’an
اللّهُمَّ صَيِّـباً نافِـعاً
O Allah, (bring) beneficial rain clouds.
Du’a for Anger
A’oothu billaahi minash-Shaytaanir-rajeem
أعوذُ بِٱللَّهِ مِنَ ٱلشَّيۡطَٰنِ ٱلرَّجِيمِ
I seek refuge in Allah from Satan the outcast from that which You provide for us
Du’a for Worry and Grief
Allaahumma ‘innee ‘abduka, ibnu ‘abdika, ibnu ‘amatika, naasiyatee biyadika, maadhin fiyya hukmuka, ‘adlun fiyya qadhaa’uka, ‘as’aluka bikulli ismin huwa laka, sammayta bihi nafsaka, ‘aw ‘anzaltahu fee kitaabika, ‘aw ‘allamtahu ‘ahadan min khalqika, ‘awista’tharta bihi fee ‘ilmil-ghaybi ‘indaka, ‘an taj’alal-Qur’aana rabee’a qalbee, wa noora sadree, wa jalaa’a huznee, wa thahaaba hammee.
O Allah, I am Your slave and the son of Your male slave and the son of Your female slave . My forehead is in Your Hand (i.e. you have control over me) . Your Judgment upon me is assured and Your Decree concerning me is just. I ask You by every Name that You have named Yourself with, revealed in Your Book , taught any one of Your creation or kept unto Yourself in the knowledge of the unseen that is with You , to make the Qur’an the spring of my heart, and the light of my chest, the banisher of my sadness and the reliever of my distress.
May Allah make us amongst His Slaves whose prayers and supplications are accepted. Ameen!
