Allahumma aj’alna min ‘ibadik alladheena yaseeroon ‘ala as-sirat al-mustaqeem Meaning
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Word Meaning:
Meaning of the Dua:
This supplication asks Allah to include the supplicant among those who actively strive and compete in performing righteous deeds (طاعات). The word “يتنافسون” (compete) implies a healthy rivalry in doing good, where believers encourage one another to excel in piety, worship, and acts of kindness.
Key Concepts:
Competing in Good Deeds (تنافس في الطاعات):
– This reflects the Quranic principle of hastening toward good deeds (e.g., Surah Al-Baqarah 2:148, Surah Al-Mu’minun 23:61).
– It signifies enthusiasm in worship, charity, knowledge, and moral excellence, not out of pride but to earn Allah’s pleasure.
Types of “Tā’āt” (طاعات – Good Deeds):
– Includes obligatory acts (prayer, fasting, zakah) and voluntary deeds (night prayers, dhikr, helping others).
– Also covers moral excellence: honesty, patience, and kindness.
Spiritual Benefits:
– Purifies the heart and strengthens faith (īmān).
– Fosters a community that uplifts one another in righteousness (Surah Al-Asr 103:3).
Avoiding Neglect:
– A reminder to stay consistent, as complacency can lead to spiritual decline.
Why This Dua Matters:
– It seeks Allah’s help to remain steadfast and motivated in obedience.
– Aligns with the Quranic praise for those who “race toward good deeds” (Surah Al-Fāṭir 35:32).
– Encourages a proactive attitude in worship, unlike passive faith.
Practical Application:
– Set goals (e.g., memorizing Quran, daily charity).
– Surround yourself with righteous company to foster healthy competition.
– Reflect on the Prophet’s (ﷺ) example and the diligence of the Sahaba.
Conclusion:
This dua is a powerful request for Allah to make us among those who persistently excel in goodness, embodying the Quranic ideal of a believer whose deeds are done with sincerity and zeal.
When to Use:
The phrase *”اللهم اجعلنا من الذين يتنافسون في الطاعات”* (translated as *”O Allah, make us among those who compete in good deeds”*) is a supplication (dua) commonly used by Muslims seeking Allah’s help to become diligent in performing righteous acts and surpassing others in piety.
Situations for Use:
- During Personal Supplication (Dua): Recited when asking Allah to increase one’s motivation for worship, charity, or other virtuous actions.
- In Congregational Prayers: Sometimes included in group prayers, especially during Ramadan or religious gatherings, to encourage communal spirituality.
- After Salah (Prayer): Said after obligatory prayers as a reminder to strive for excellence in obedience to Allah.
- During Times of Spiritual Weakness: Used when feeling lazy in worship, seeking Allah’s assistance to regain enthusiasm for good deeds.
- In Islamic Lectures or Sermons: Mentioned by scholars to inspire believers toward active competition in righteousness.
- Before Engaging in Charitable Acts: Recited to seek blessings and sincerity when donating, volunteering, or helping others.
- In Daily Morning/Evening Adhkar (Remembrances): Part of a Muslim’s routine devotional practices to maintain a strong connection with faith.
This dua reflects the Quranic principle of *”competing in good deeds”* (Quran 2:148, 5:48) and encourages believers to actively pursue piety rather than worldly rivalry.