Allahumma aj’alna min ‘ibadik al-abrar Meaning
Arabic Text:
Transliteration:
Translation:
Word Meaning:
This Arabic phrase translates to: *”O Allah, make us among those who ask You for Paradise and seek refuge in You from the Fire.”* It is a humble plea to Allah to include the supplicant among the righteous believers who actively seek Paradise and protection from Hellfire.
Breakdown of the Du’a:
“اللهم اجعلنا من الذين…” (O Allah, make us among those who…)
The supplicant begins by addressing Allah, acknowledging His power and mercy, and asking to be counted among a specific group of people—those who strive for righteousness.
“يسألونك الجنة” (ask You for Paradise)
This part emphasizes the importance of actively desiring and praying for Jannah (Paradise), which reflects strong faith (iman) and hope in Allah’s rewards. It signifies prioritizing the eternal over worldly gains.
“ويستعيذون بك من النار” (seek refuge in You from the Fire)
Here, the believer seeks Allah’s protection from Jahannam (Hellfire), demonstrating awareness of sin and the consequences of disobedience. It reflects fear of Allah’s punishment and a desire for salvation.
Key Lessons from the Du’a:
Balance Between Hope and Fear
A believer should balance hope for Allah’s mercy (in asking for Paradise) and fear of His justice (in seeking refuge from Hell). This balance is central to Islamic spirituality.
Proactive Faith
The du’a encourages believers to actively *ask* for good and *seek protection* from evil, rather than being passive in their faith.
Dependence on Allah
It reinforces reliance on Allah alone for attaining goodness and avoiding harm, acknowledging human weakness and divine power.
Prioritizing the Hereafter
The supplication shifts focus from worldly desires to eternal success, reminding Muslims of the ultimate goal—pleasing Allah and securing a place in Paradise.
When to Recite This Du’a:
This prayer can be made at any time, but it is especially powerful during:
- Prostration (sujood) in prayer.
- The last part of the night (Tahajjud).
- Times of sincere repentance (tawbah).
- After obligatory prayers or during supplication (du’a) gatherings.
Virtues of the Du’a:
- It aligns with the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), who frequently asked Allah for Paradise and protection from Hell.
- It reflects the attitude of the righteous, as mentioned in the Quran: *”And those who say, ‘Our Lord, avert from us the punishment of Hell. Indeed, its punishment is ever adhering.'”* (Quran 25:65)
By sincerely reciting this du’a, a Muslim expresses their ultimate aspirations and fears, seeking Allah’s help in achieving salvation.
When to Use:
The phrase *”اللهم اجعلنا من الذين يسألونك الجنة ويستعيذون بك من النار”* (translation: *”O Allah, make us among those who ask You for Paradise and seek refuge in You from the Fire”*) is a supplication (dua) commonly recited by Muslims.
Daily Prayers (Salah):
Often said during personal supplications after obligatory prayers, especially in sujood (prostration) or before tasleem (ending the prayer).
Seeking Protection & Reward:
Used to express humility before Allah, asking for entry into Jannah (Paradise) and protection from Jahannam (Hellfire).
Times of Reflection:
Recited during moments of repentance, after Quran recitation, or when seeking Allah’s mercy.
Ramadan & Laylat al-Qadr:
Frequently repeated during the last ten nights of Ramadan, when Muslims intensify prayers for salvation.
Funerals & Remembrance of Death:
Uttered to seek a good end (husn al-khatimah) and remind oneself of the Hereafter.
General Dua Practice:
Included in personal or group supplications, emphasizing reliance on Allah for eternal success.
This dua reflects core Islamic teachings—hope in Allah’s mercy, fear of His punishment, and the balance between desire for reward and seeking refuge from divine wrath.