Allahumma urzuqna as-sabr ‘inda al-balaa wa ash-shukr ‘inda ar-rakhaa Meaning

Arabic Text:

اللهم اجعلنا من الذين يسابقون إلى الخيرات

Transliteration:

Allahumma urzuqna as-sabr ‘inda al-balaa wa ash-shukr ‘inda ar-rakhaa

Translation:

O Allah, make us among those who rush towards good deeds

Word Meaning:

1. Literal Meaning:

The phrase translates to: “O Allah, make us among those who race toward good deeds.” It is a supplication asking Allah to include the supplicant among those who eagerly and swiftly perform righteous actions.

2. Key Components:

“اللهم” (O Allah): A direct invocation to Allah, expressing humility and dependence on Him.

“اجعلنا” (Make us): A request for divine enablement, acknowledging that true ability comes from Allah.

“من الذين” (Among those who): A plea to be counted within a specific group of people—the righteous.

“يسابقون” (Race/Compete): Implies urgency, enthusiasm, and a proactive attitude in doing good.

“إلى الخيرات” (Toward good deeds): Refers to all forms of righteousness—prayer, charity, kindness, and obedience to Allah.

3. Spiritual Significance:

Eagerness for Goodness: Reflects a believer’s desire to excel in piety, not merely performing deeds passively but striving to outdo oneself and others in virtue (as encouraged in the Quran, e.g., 2:148, 57:21).

Avoiding Procrastination: A reminder to act immediately upon opportunities for good, resisting laziness or delay.

Divine Assistance: Recognizes that without Allah’s help, one cannot attain this noble status.

4. Practical Application:

Competing in Righteousness: Encourages Muslims to actively seek good deeds (e.g., helping others, learning Islam, giving charity) before time or chances are lost.

Self-Improvement: Motivates constant self-assessment to increase in goodness.

Community Impact: Inspires collective positivity, as racing toward good deeds fosters a virtuous society.

5. Quranic & Prophetic Connection:

– The Quran praises those “who are quick in doing good” (23:61) and urges believers to “compete in good works” (5:48).

– The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) emphasized hastening to do good, warning against delaying repentance or deeds (Hadith, e.g., Bukhari, Muslim).

6. Outcome of the Dua:

If granted, it leads to:

Divine Pleasure: Allah loves those who excel in good.

Barakah (Blessing): Time and efforts are blessed.

Protection from Evil: Engaging in good helps avoid sin.

Conclusion: This supplication encapsulates a Muslim’s aspiration for spiritual excellence, reliance on Allah, and commitment to proactive righteousness in all aspects of life.

When to Use:

The phrase “اللهم اجعلنا من الذين يسابقون إلى الخيرات” (translated as “O Allah, make us among those who race toward good deeds”) is a supplication (dua) commonly recited by Muslims seeking Allah’s help in becoming diligent in performing righteous actions.

Situations for Use:

  1. During Personal Supplication (Dua):
    – Recited in prayers (especially during sujood or after salah).
    – Used in private moments of reflection to seek Allah’s assistance in staying steadfast in good deeds.
  2. Encouraging Good Deeds:
    – Shared in Islamic reminders, sermons, or study circles to motivate others toward piety.
  3. Times of Spiritual Renewal:
    – Said during Ramadan, the last ten nights, or other sacred times to seek increased devotion.
  4. Overcoming Laziness in Worship:
    – Used when struggling with procrastination in acts of worship (e.g., prayer, charity, Quran recitation).
  5. Group Settings:
    – Recited in gatherings where believers encourage one another toward righteousness.
  6. After Hearing About Good Deeds:
    – Uttered upon learning of others’ good actions, seeking the same zeal.
  7. Morning/Evening Adhkar:
    – Included in daily remembrance (adhkar) to cultivate a habit of pursuing goodness.

Meaning & Intent:

The dua reflects a believer’s desire to be proactive in obedience, seeking Allah’s help to remain among the righteous who eagerly perform and compete in virtuous acts (as mentioned in Quran 23:61). It emphasizes sincerity, urgency, and consistency in doing good.