Allahumma aj’alna min alladheena yahrisoona ‘ala ridaaka fawqa rida an-naas Meaning
Arabic Text:
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Translation:
Word Meaning:
Meaning of the Supplication:
This Arabic phrase translates to: “O Allah, grant us humility and keep arrogance away from us.” It is a heartfelt prayer asking Allah to bless the supplicant with the virtue of humility while seeking protection from the destructive trait of arrogance.
Breakdown of Key Terms:
التواضع (At-Tawāḍuʿ) – Humility:
Humility is the quality of being modest, respectful, and free from pride. In Islam, it is a highly praised characteristic, as the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said: “No one humbles himself for the sake of Allah except that Allah raises him in status.” (Muslim)
A humble person acknowledges their weaknesses, treats others with kindness, and recognizes that all blessings come from Allah.
الكِبر (Al-Kibr) – Arrogance:
Arrogance is an inflated sense of self-importance, looking down upon others, and rejecting truth due to pride. Islam strongly condemns arrogance, as Allah says in the Quran: “Indeed, He does not like the arrogant.” (Quran 16:23)
The Prophet (ﷺ) warned: “No one who has an atom’s weight of arrogance in his heart will enter Paradise.” (Muslim)
Why This Du’a is Important:
Spiritual Purification: Humility softens the heart, increases gratitude, and strengthens one’s connection with Allah.
Social Harmony: Humble individuals foster unity, while arrogance creates division and resentment.
Divine Acceptance: Allah loves those who are humble and despises the arrogant. This prayer seeks His pleasure and protection from a major spiritual disease.
Practical Ways to Cultivate Humility & Avoid Arrogance:
Self-Reflection: Regularly assess your intentions and actions.
Gratitude: Acknowledge that every blessing is from Allah.
Service to Others: Help those in need without seeking praise.
Seeking Knowledge: True knowledge increases humility, as one realizes how much they do not know.
Conclusion:
This powerful du’a is a reminder to constantly seek humility and flee from arrogance, ensuring spiritual growth and Allah’s mercy. By internalizing this prayer, a Muslim strives to embody the Prophetic example of modesty and sincerity.
May Allah grant us all the beauty of humility and protect us from the ruin of pride. Ameen.
When to Use:
1. Personal Supplication:
Muslims may recite this prayer to seek humility and protection from arrogance in their daily lives, especially during moments of self-reflection or after recognizing prideful tendencies.
2. After Salah (Prayer):
It can be recited as a personal du’a (supplication) following the five daily prayers, asking Allah to instill modesty and remove pride from the heart.
3. During Times of Success:
When experiencing achievements, wealth, or praise, this du’a serves as a reminder to remain humble and avoid vanity.
4. Seeking Self-Improvement:
Individuals striving for spiritual growth may use this prayer to purify their intentions and cultivate sincerity in worship and interactions.
5. Teaching Humility to Children:
Parents or educators may teach this du’a to children to instill the value of humility early in life.
6. Community Settings:
In Islamic study circles or gatherings, this supplication may be recited collectively to emphasize the importance of humility in faith and social conduct.
7. Repentance:
Those seeking forgiveness for past arrogance may recite it as part of their repentance, asking Allah to replace pride with humility.
8. Before Religious Knowledge:
Students or scholars may say it before seeking or imparting knowledge to ensure their intentions remain pure and free from intellectual pride.
9. Social Interactions:
It can be recited before engaging in discussions or debates to prevent condescension and promote respectful dialogue.
10. General Daily Reminder:
Some may include it in morning or evening adhkar (remembrance) to consistently seek humility and guard against arrogance.
This du’a aligns with Islamic teachings that condemn pride (kibr) and encourage humility (tawadu’), as exemplified by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Its usage spans personal, communal, and spiritual contexts to foster sincerity and piety.