Allahumma aj’alna min ahl at-taqwa Meaning
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Translation:
Word Meaning:
Meaning of the Dua:
The phrase translates to: “O Allah, I seek refuge in You from poverty.” It is a prayer asking Allah for protection from financial hardship, destitution, and the difficulties that come with lacking sufficient means.
Significance of Seeking Refuge from Poverty:
Poverty as a Trial:
– Poverty can be a severe test that may lead to stress, desperation, or even weakening one’s faith. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) frequently sought refuge from poverty, recognizing its potential harm.
Impact on Faith and Dignity:
– Financial hardship may push a person towards unlawful means of earning, jealousy, or even neglecting religious duties due to overwhelming struggles.
Prophetic Teachings:
– The Prophet (ﷺ) taught this supplication, emphasizing reliance on Allah for sustenance and protection from neediness.
Related Hadith:
A famous hadith from Sunan Ibn Majah (3354) mentions:
“The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) used to seek refuge from five things: from miserliness, cowardice, the evils of old age, the trials of the heart, and the punishment of the grave.”
In another narration, he (ﷺ) also sought refuge from “debt and poverty,” as debt can lead to humiliation and stress.
Wisdom Behind the Dua:
– Dependence on Allah: By seeking refuge from poverty, a believer acknowledges that sustenance comes only from Allah.
– Prevention of Hardship: Asking for protection before hardship strikes is a proactive measure in Islam.
– Balanced Approach: While Islam encourages striving for lawful provision (rizq), it also teaches contentment (qana’ah) and trust in Allah’s decree.
When to Recite This Dua?
– During personal supplications, especially after prayers.
– In times of financial anxiety or when fearing future difficulties.
– As part of morning/evening adhkar (remembrances) for protection.
Conclusion:
This powerful supplication reflects a believer’s humility and reliance on Allah, recognizing that true wealth is not just material but also spiritual and emotional stability. By seeking refuge from poverty, one asks Allah for a life of dignity, sufficiency, and ease in both worldly and religious affairs.
When to Use:
1. **Daily Supplication (Dua):**
Muslims may recite this phrase during personal prayers, especially when seeking Allah’s protection from financial hardship or instability.
2. **Morning/Evening Adhkar:**
It can be included in the remembrance (adhkar) recited after Fajr or Maghrib prayers as a means of seeking divine protection.
3. **Times of Financial Difficulty:**
A person facing economic struggles or fearing poverty may repeat this supplication to seek Allah’s assistance and relief.
4. **Before Major Decisions:**
Someone starting a business, changing careers, or making significant financial commitments may use this dua to seek Allah’s safeguard from loss or deprivation.
5. **During Prostration (Sujood):**
A believer may recite it in sujood, a position where supplications are highly encouraged and likely to be accepted.
6. **After Salah:**
It can be recited after obligatory prayers, particularly when making personal duas for protection and well-being.
7. **In Times of Gratitude:**
When thanking Allah for blessings, a person may also seek refuge from poverty to maintain their sustenance and avoid future hardship.
8. **General Anxiety About Wealth:**
Those worried about their financial future may repeat this phrase to reinforce trust in Allah’s provision and ease their concerns.
9. **Teaching Children:**
Parents may teach this dua to children to instill reliance on Allah for sustenance from an early age.
10. **Islamic Gatherings:**
Scholars or speakers may reference this supplication in lectures about reliance on Allah (tawakkul) or overcoming life’s challenges.
This phrase reflects reliance on Allah alone for provision and serves as both a spiritual and practical means of seeking protection from poverty.