Allahumma aj’alna min ‘ibadik as-saliheen alladheena yuhibboona al-khayr li-nnas Meaning

Arabic Text:

اللهم ارزقنا صحبة الأخيار

Transliteration:

Allahumma aj’alna min ‘ibadik as-saliheen alladheena yuhibboona al-khayr li-nnas

Translation:

O Allah, grant us the companionship of the righteous

Word Meaning:

Literal Meaning:

The phrase translates to: “O Allah, grant us the companionship of the righteous (Al-Akhyar).”

  • اللهم (Allahumma): An invocation meaning “O Allah.”
  • ارزقنا (Arzuqna): “Grant us” (from rizq, meaning provision, which includes both material and spiritual blessings).
  • صحبة (Suhbah): “Companionship” or close association.
  • الأخيار (Al-Akhyar): “The righteous”—those who are pious, virtuous, and obedient to Allah.

Spiritual Significance:

  • Companionship Shapes Character: Islam emphasizes that friends influence one’s faith and behavior. The Prophet (ﷺ) said: “A person is upon the religion of their close friend, so let each of you look at whom they befriend.” (Tirmidhi)
  • Protection from Harmful Influences: Seeking righteous friends safeguards against bad company, which may lead to sin or neglect of faith.
  • Divine Assistance in Finding Good Friends: The dua acknowledges that Allah controls hearts and social bonds, so we ask Him to facilitate beneficial relationships.

Why “Rizq” (Provision) is Used:

  • Rizq is Not Just Wealth: In Islam, rizq includes all forms of Allah’s blessings—sustenance, knowledge, and even righteous friends.
  • Acknowledging Allah’s Role: By using “arzuqna,” we recognize that good companionship is a gift from Allah, not merely a personal effort.

Practical Implications:

  • Choosing Friends Wisely: This dua encourages Muslims to actively seek and nurture relationships with those who remind them of Allah and encourage goodness.
  • A Prayer for All Relationships: It extends beyond friends to include spouses, teachers, and community members who inspire piety.

Connection to Quran & Sunnah:

  • Quranic Basis: “And keep yourself patient with those who call upon their Lord morning and evening, seeking His face.” (Quran 18:28)
  • Prophetic Example: The Prophet (ﷺ) prioritized brotherhood in faith, uniting the Ansar and Muhajireen in Medina.

Outcome of This Dua:

  • Increased Iman (Faith): Righteous friends help one uphold prayers, recite Quran, and avoid sins.
  • Support in Dunya & Akhirah: They become a source of comfort in this life and intercession in the Hereafter.

Conclusion:

This dua is a profound request for Allah’s guidance in forming relationships that elevate one’s faith, protect from evil, and lead to eternal success. It reflects Islam’s holistic approach to spiritual and social well-being.

When to Use:

This supplication is commonly recited by Muslims seeking virtuous and pious companionship in their lives. It reflects a desire to surround oneself with righteous individuals who encourage faith, good deeds, and moral uprightness.

**Situations where it may be used:**

1. **Daily Prayers (Duas)** – Muslims may include it in their personal supplications, especially after Salah.

2. **Seeking Good Friends** – When looking for righteous peers, mentors, or a pious spouse.

3. **Protection from Bad Influences** – To avoid harmful relationships and seek Allah’s guidance in forming beneficial bonds.

4. **Islamic Gatherings** – Recited in study circles, lectures, or group prayers to emphasize the importance of righteous company.

5. **Times of Difficulty** – When feeling spiritually weak or isolated, one may ask Allah for supportive, faithful companions.

The phrase underscores the Islamic teaching that companionship greatly influences one’s faith and character, as emphasized in the Quran and Hadith.